Dehydration Flashcards
What occurs when fluid losses are greater than fluid intake?
Dehydration
Dehydration can lead to serious health consequences if not addressed.
What is the most common cause of dehydration in pediatric patients?
Vomiting and diarrhea
These causes can rapidly lead to significant fluid loss.
What can untreated dehydration lead to?
Shock and eventually death
This progression highlights the urgency of treatment.
Why are infants and children at greater risk for dehydration compared to adults?
Their fluid reserves are smaller
This makes them more vulnerable to rapid changes in hydration status.
How quickly can life-threatening dehydration affect an infant?
In a matter of hours
This underscores the need for prompt recognition and treatment.
What are the three levels of dehydration severity?
Mild, moderate, or severe
Each level has specific signs and symptoms.
What are some signs of mild dehydration in an infant?
- Dry lips and gums
- Decreased saliva
- Fewer wet diapers
These signs indicate the need for increased fluid intake.
What signs indicate more severe dehydration in an infant?
- Very dry lips and gums
- Sunken eyes
- Sleepiness or irritability
- Refusal of bottles
- Poor skin turgor
- Sunken fontanelles
These signs require immediate medical attention.
How can young children compensate for fluid losses?
By decreasing blood flow to extremities and directing it to vital organs
This compensatory mechanism helps maintain organ function temporarily.
What skin changes may occur in children who are moderately to severely dehydrated?
- Mottled skin
- Cool skin
- Clammy skin
- Delayed capillary response time
These changes indicate serious dehydration and require urgent care.
What is a common respiratory change in dehydrated children?
Increased respirations
This is a response to decreased fluid levels in the body.
Can blood pressure remain normal in a pediatric patient who is in shock?
Yes
Compensatory mechanisms may maintain normal blood pressure despite shock.
What should emergency medical care include for suspected dehydration?
Assessing the ABCs and obtaining baseline vital signs
This is crucial for evaluating the patient’s condition.
What may be necessary if the dehydration is severe?
ALS backup for IV access and rehydration
Intravenous rehydration is often required for severe cases.
Where should pediatric patients with moderate to severe dehydration be transported?
To the ED for further evaluation and treatment
Timely transport can improve outcomes significantly.
