More questions on the topic
More questions on the topic ( 39 Questions)
A nurse is evaluating a client who is 70 years old for signs of dehydration.
Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
This is wrong because increased skin turgor is not a sign of dehydration.
Skin turgor is the ability of the skin to return to its normal shape after being pinched or pulled. Dehydration causes decreased skin turgor, meaning the skin stays tented or wrinkled after being pinched.
This is wrong because decreased pulse rate is not a sign of dehydration. Dehydration causes an increased pulse rate, as the heart has to work harder to pump blood to the vital organs when there is less fluid in the body.
This is wrong because increased urine output is not a sign of dehydration. Dehydration causes decreased urine output, as the kidneys try to conserve water and produce more concentrated urine.
The urine may also be darker in color than normal.
Decreased mental status. Dehydration in elderly people can cause confusion, disorientation, or drowsiness due to the loss of water and electrolytes from the body.
These symptoms can affect the cognitive function and alertness of the client. Dehydration can also lead to complications such as kidney problems, electrolyte imbalances, or low blood pressure.
The correct answer is D.
Decreased mental status. Dehydration in elderly people can cause confusion, disorientation, or drowsiness due to the loss of water and electrolytes from the body.
These symptoms can affect the cognitive function and alertness of the client. Dehydration can also lead to complications such as kidney problems, electrolyte imbalances, or low blood pressure.
Choice A is wrong because increased skin turgor is not a sign of dehydration.
Skin turgor is the ability of the skin to return to its normal shape after being pinched or pulled. Dehydration causes decreased skin turgor, meaning the skin stays tented or wrinkled after being pinched.
Choice B is wrong because decreased pulse rate is not a sign of dehydration. Dehydration causes increased pulse rate, as the heart has to work harder to pump blood to the vital organs when there is less fluid in the body.
Choice C is wrong because increased urine output is not a sign of dehydration. Dehydration causes decreased urine output, as the kidneys try to conserve water and produce more concentrated urine.
The urine may also be darker in color than normal.
Normal ranges for fluid intake and output vary depending on age, weight, activity level, and health status.
However, a general guideline is to drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water per day and produce at least 30 mL of urine per hour.