A nurse is caring for an elderly client with viral gastroenteritis. What complication should the nurse be particularly vigilant for in this population?

A) Correct. Skin turgor and mucous membranes are important indicators of hydration status, which is a critical concern in clients with gastroenteritis.

B) Incorrect. While blood pressure and heart rate are important vital signs, they may not provide immediate information about the client's hydration status.

C) Incorrect. Urinary output and specific gravity are important indicators of renal function, but they may not provide immediate information about the client's hydration status.

D) Incorrect. Respiratory rate and lung sounds are important assessments, but they may not provide immediate information about the client's hydration status.

A) Incorrect. While antibodies play a role in the immune response, they are not the primary mediators of inflammation in gastroenteritis.

B) Correct. Inflammation in gastroenteritis is a protective response against invading pathogens and helps to clear the infection.

C) Incorrect. Inflammation in gastroenteritis can occur in both the stomach and the small intestine, not just the large intestine.

D) Incorrect. Inflammatory cells, such as white blood cells, play a significant role in the inflammatory response in gastroenteritis. They are responsible for targeting and destroying pathogens.