Dehydration

Question 1

What is dehydration?

Answer 1

• Loss of water and salts essential for normal body function

- Occurs when the body loses more water than it takes in

Question 2

What causes dehydration?

Answer 2

• Illness
• Change in climate
• Prolonged exposure to sun/high temperatures
• Not enough water
• Increased urination

Question 3

Signs of mild dehydration

Answer 3

• Decreased urine output
• Thirst
• Dry mucous membranes
• Mild tachycardia

Question 4

Signs of moderate dehydration?

Answer 4

• Decreased skin turgor
• Abnormal respiratory patterns
• Lethargy
• Sunken eyes/fontanelle

Question 5

Signs of severe dehydration?

Answer 5

• Poor perfusion: mottled, cool limbs, slow cap refill
• Altered LOC
• Shock: thready peripheral pulses
• Marked tachycardia

Question 6

Treatment for dehydration?

Answer 6

• Treatment is the same for mild/moderate/severe
• Oral fluids if pt can tolerate
• If nil response, IV compound sodium lactate
• In adults, dose is 10ml/kg