Final answer:
Possible signs of dehydration in a patient with a fistula include decreased urination, dry mouth, dizziness, confusion, and thirst. Vomiting and chronic diarrhea are common causes of fluid loss leading to these symptoms, which require prompt medical attention. IV fluids are typically administered for rehydration.
Step-by-step explanation:
A patient with Crohn's disease (CD) who has developed a fistula could be at risk for dehydration due to fluid loss. An assessment finding that indicates possible dehydration in this context would include signs such as a marked decrease in urination, a very dry mouth, and throat, feeling dizzy when standing up, or, in more severe cases, confusion and a complaint of thirst. This could be due to frequent vomiting, persistent diarrhea, or both, which prevent the patient from retaining adequate fluids. These symptoms should be taken seriously as dehydration can lead to serious complications, especially in patients with underlying conditions like CD.
Additional signs of severe dehydration include low blood pressure, such as a reading of 70/45, which necessitates immediate medical intervention. To treat dehydration, a dehydrated human patient may be given fluids intravenously.