Final answer:
a.Serum sodium level 145 mEq/L. When assessing an older adult client brought to the emergency department, a high serum sodium level, forearm skin tenting, increased respiratory rate, and high urine specific gravity can indicate hypertonic dehydration.
Step-by-step explanation:
When assessing an older adult client brought to the emergency department, there are several assessment findings that can indicate hypertonic dehydration. One of these findings is a high serum sodium level, such as 145 mEq/L. Hypertonic dehydration occurs when there is a deficit of water in relation to electrolytes, leading to an increased concentration of sodium in the blood. Serum sodium levels above the normal range can suggest hypertonic dehydration.
Other assessment findings that may indicate hypertonic dehydration are the opposite of those listed: forearm skin tenting when pinched, increased respiratory rate, and high urine specific gravity (1.045 or above). These findings suggest decreased fluid volume in the body, which is consistent with hypertonic dehydration.