A client’s mother is worried about her child who has been diagnosed with moderate dehydration.
The nurse reassures the mother and explains the steps involved in fluid replacement for a dehydrated child.
Which of the following statements by the mother indicates a correct understanding of the nurse’s explanation?

Choice A rationale:

Thirst and dry mouth are early signs of dehydration.

When the body loses fluids, it signals the brain to increase thirst and conserve water.

Dry mouth can occur due to reduced saliva production when the body is dehydrated.

Choice B rationale:

Decreased urine output and dark-colored urine are indicators of concentrated urine, suggesting dehydration.

Reduced fluid intake or excessive fluid loss can lead to decreased urine production, and the urine becomes more concentrated, appearing darker than usual.

Choice C rationale:

Rapid heart rate and low blood pressure are signs of hypovolemic shock, a severe form of dehydration where the body cannot circulate enough blood to meet its needs.

This can happen in severe cases of dehydration when there is a significant loss of fluids and electrolytes.

Choice D rationale:

Poor skin turgor is a classic clinical sign of dehydration.

Skin turgor refers to the skin's ability to return to its normal position after being pinched.

In dehydrated individuals, the skin loses elasticity and remains tented or "pinched" after being pulled up.

This indicates a lack of fluid in the body.

Choice E rationale:

Increased energy and playfulness are not typical signs of dehydration.

Dehydrated children are more likely to be lethargic and irritable due to the physiological stress on their bodies.

Choice A rationale:

Ensure appropriate fluid intake based on age and weight.

Rationale: This is an essential piece of advice to prevent dehydration in children.

Proper fluid intake based on age and weight helps maintain hydration.

However, it's not the only advice that should be given.

Choice B rationale:

Monitor for signs of dehydration such as dry mucous membranes and decreased urine output.

Rationale: Monitoring for signs of dehydration is crucial, but it's not the only preventive measure.

Detecting dehydration early is important for timely intervention, but proactive prevention is also necessary.

Choice C rationale:

Encourage consumption of electrolyte solutions during periods of illness.

Rationale: Encouraging the consumption of electrolyte solutions during illness is a valuable piece of advice, especially when children may lose fluids due to vomiting or diarrhea.

However, it's not the only preventive measure.

Choice D rationale:

All these measures are necessary to prevent dehydration in children.

Rationale: This is The correct answer.

Preventing dehydration in children involves a combination of measures, including ensuring appropriate fluid intake, monitoring for signs of dehydration, and encouraging electrolyte solutions during illness.

All these measures work together to keep a child well-hydrated and prevent dehydration.