Jun 20, 2021
- Written By: Darrell Vandenbrink
- Peer Review By: Chris Cochrane
- Expert Review By: Dr. Adrienne Stedford
Objective One:
When assessing the acutely ill patient, look for signs and symptoms
of dehydration. (e.g., look for dehydration in the patient with a
debilitating pneumonia).
Objective Two:
In the dehydrated patient, assess the degree of dehydration using
reliable indicators (e.g., vital signs) as some patients' hydration
status may be more difficult to assess (e.g., elderly, very young,
pregnant).
Objective Three:
In a dehydrated patient,
Determine the appropriate volume of fluid for replacement of
deficiency and ongoing needs
Use the appropriate route (oral if the patient is able; IV when
necessary).
Objective Four:
When treating severe dehydration, use objective measures (e.g., lab
values) to direct ongoing management.
Objective Five:
In a dehydrated patient
Identify the precipitating illness or cause, especially looking for
non-gastro-intestinal, including drug-related, causes
Treat the precipitating illness concurrently.
Objective Six:
Treat the dehydrated pregnant patient aggressively, as there are
additional risks of dehydration in pregnancy.