Final answer:
The most concerning symptom of viral gastroenteritis that a nurse should be attentive to is severe dehydration. This is due to the excessive loss of fluids from persistent vomiting and diarrhea, which can lead to serious complications if not treated with rehydration therapy promptly.
Step-by-step explanation:
When assessing a patient with viral gastroenteritis, the symptom of most concern for the nurse would be severe dehydration. Dehydration occurs due to excessive loss of fluids and electrolytes from persistent vomiting and diarrhea, which are common symptoms of gastroenteritis. Not only does dehydration exacerbate the patient’s condition, but it can also lead to more serious complications if not corrected promptly. Therefore, the nurse must prioritize fluid replacement and rehydration therapy to manage the condition effectively and prevent any further deterioration in the patient’s health.
Other symptoms such as abdominal pain, cramping, and nausea, while uncomfortable, are typically less critical in the acute setting than the risks associated with dehydration. Given its potential to rapidly compound and cause complications, dehydration remains the symptom of primary concern to be addressed urgently in patients suffering from viral gastroenteritis.