What is a common symptom that might be monitored in a client who has dehydration?

What is a common symptom that might be monitored in a client who has dehydration?

• A. Hypotension
• B. Fever
• C. Bradycardia
• D. Skin rash

Answer: (A)

Hypotension, or low blood pressure, is a common symptom to monitor in clients who are dehydrated. When the body lacks adequate fluid, the blood volume decreases, which can lead to a drop in blood pressure. This can result in symptoms like dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting, especially when the person stands up. Monitoring blood pressure is crucial, as significant hypotension can indicate worsening dehydration and potentially lead to more serious complications. The other symptoms listed are generally not primary indicators of dehydration. Fever may suggest an infection or another underlying issue rather than dehydration itself. Bradycardia (slowed heart rate) can occur in various scenarios but is not a standard symptom of dehydration—more often, dehydration leads to tachycardia (increased heart rate). A skin rash does not typically relate to dehydration; it can signify allergic reactions, infections, or other dermatological conditions. Understanding these distinctions is important in assessing a client’s condition accurately.

Hypotension, or low blood pressure, is a common symptom to monitor in clients who are dehydrated. When the body lacks adequate fluid, the blood volume decreases, which can lead to a drop in blood pressure. This can result in symptoms like dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting, especially when the person stands up. Monitoring blood pressure is crucial, as significant hypotension can indicate worsening dehydration and potentially lead to more serious complications.

The other symptoms listed are generally not primary indicators of dehydration. Fever may suggest an infection or another underlying issue rather than dehydration itself. Bradycardia (slowed heart rate) can occur in various scenarios but is not a standard symptom of dehydration—more often, dehydration leads to tachycardia (increased heart rate). A skin rash does not typically relate to dehydration; it can signify allergic reactions, infections, or other dermatological conditions. Understanding these distinctions is important in assessing a client’s condition accurately.