Question

In a patient with hypotension, poor perfusion, and lethargy, how would you estimate the level of dehydration, and what percentage of dehydration is suggested?

Answer 1

The percentage of dehydration can be estimated based on the loss of total body water, with mild dehydration being a loss of 2-5% of body weight, moderate dehydration being a loss of 6-9%, and severe dehydration being a loss of 10% or more.

Step-by-step explanation:

To estimate the level of dehydration in a patient with hypotension, poor perfusion, and lethargy, a healthcare professional would typically assess various clinical signs and symptoms. These may include decreased skin turgor, dry mucous membranes, sunken eyes, increased heart rate, decreased blood pressure, and decreased urine output. Additionally, laboratory tests such as blood electrolyte levels and urine specific gravity may also be used for further evaluation.

The percentage of dehydration can be estimated based on the loss of total body water. Mild dehydration is typically associated with a loss of 2-5% of total body weight, moderate dehydration with a loss of 6-9%, and severe dehydration with a loss of 10% or more. However, it is important to note that the percentage of dehydration can vary depending on individual factors such as age, underlying health conditions, and the duration of dehydration.