What should the nurse expect to find in an infant with dehydration?

What should the nurse expect to find in an infant with dehydration?

• A. Increased weight gain
• B. Dry mucous membranes
• C. Increased urine output
• D. Warm, moist skin

Answer: (B)

In an infant with dehydration, dry mucous membranes are a key indicator of fluid loss. When the body is dehydrated, there is a reduction in bodily fluids, which affects moisture levels in mucous membranes, making them appear dry and less elastic. This sign is significant in assessing hydration status, particularly in infants who are more susceptible to the effects of dehydration due to their higher surface area-to-volume ratio and inability to communicate their needs effectively. In contrast, increased weight gain would suggest fluid retention, which is contrary to the state of dehydration. Increased urine output typically indicates a well-hydrated status or the body’s response to excess fluid intake or diuretics, which is not consistent with dehydration. Warm, moist skin would indicate adequate hydration and circulation, which would not be present in dehydrated infants who often exhibit cool, clammy skin. Thus, the dryness of mucous membranes serves as a clear and observable sign of dehydration in infants.

In an infant with dehydration, dry mucous membranes are a key indicator of fluid loss. When the body is dehydrated, there is a reduction in bodily fluids, which affects moisture levels in mucous membranes, making them appear dry and less elastic. This sign is significant in assessing hydration status, particularly in infants who are more susceptible to the effects of dehydration due to their higher surface area-to-volume ratio and inability to communicate their needs effectively.

In contrast, increased weight gain would suggest fluid retention, which is contrary to the state of dehydration. Increased urine output typically indicates a well-hydrated status or the body’s response to excess fluid intake or diuretics, which is not consistent with dehydration. Warm, moist skin would indicate adequate hydration and circulation, which would not be present in dehydrated infants who often exhibit cool, clammy skin. Thus, the dryness of mucous membranes serves as a clear and observable sign of dehydration in infants.