CHAPTER 11 Fluids and Electrolytes^445
adequate fluid within the body, it cannot be utilized at this time. More commonly,
dehydration is actual and due to loss of fluid from the body or lack of adequate
hydration.
PROGNOSIS
Adequate replacement of fluids with the appropriate fluid type is essential to ensure
adequate circulating blood volume.
HALLMARK SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
- Thirst as the body wants more fluids
- Poor skin turgor due to fluid loss
- Tachycardia—heart rate increases to circulate remaining volume faster
- Tachypnea—respiratory rate increases in an attempt to obtain more oxygen
- Decreased urinary output—less volume available to leave the body
- Increased BUN as volume depletes
- Hypotension due to decrease in circulating blood volume
INTERPRETING TEST RESULTS
- BUN elevated.
- Elevated hemoglobin and hematocrit as blood hemoconcentrates.
TREATMENT
- Intravenous and oral fluid replacement.
- Monitor serum electrolytes, BUN, creatinine, urine electrolytes.
- Monitor cardiac rhythm if there is an electrolyte disturbance.
NURSING DIAGNOSIS
- Deficient fluid volume
- Risk for impaired urinary elimination
- Impaired oral mucous membrane