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Which of the following physical exam findings suggests dehydration?

A) Excessive sweating
B) Clammy, moist hands
C) Heart rate of 65 beats/min
D) Blood pressure of 135/85 mm Hg
E) Heart rate of 125 beats/min

1 Answer

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Final answer:

A heart rate of 125 beats per minute suggests dehydration, as dehydration leads to decreased blood volume, requiring the heart to pump faster to maintain circulation.

Step-by-step explanation:

Among the options provided, E) Heart rate of 125 beats/min suggests dehydration. A higher-than-normal heart rate can be a physiological response to dehydration. When the body is dehydrated, there is a decrease in blood volume which causes the heart to pump faster in an attempt to maintain blood pressure and adequate circulation. This condition correlates with the effects of dehydration such as increased pulse rate and reduced cardiac output, along with other symptoms like low blood pressure, dizziness, and extreme thirst. Other findings associated with dehydration could include dry mucous membranes, decreased skin turgor, and concentrated urine.

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