Word parts
What it means
Too little water in the body. It happens with vomiting, diarrheady-uh-REE-uhLoose or watery stools, usually three or more times a day or more often than normal for the person.dia- through-rrhea flowFull entry , fever, heavy sweating, bleeding or not drinking enough, and older adults and infants are most at risk. Signs include thirst, dry mouth, dark and small amounts of urine, a fast pulse, low blood pressure on standing, dizzinessDIZ-ee-nesA feeling of being lightheaded, unsteady or off balance, or that the room is spinning.Full entry and, in older adults, confusion. Infants may have a sunken soft spot on the head and fewer wet diapers.
For the nurse
Track intake and outputIN-tayk and OWT-putThe measured record of all fluids a client takes in and all fluids that leave the body over a set time.Full entry and daily weight, check skin, mucous membranes, urine color, pulse and blood pressure lying and standing. Offer fluids often to clients who cannot get them on their own. Report low urine output, confusion or a quickly rising heart rate.
In a chart
"Mucous membranes dry, urine dark amber, HR 112; IV fluids started as ordered."
At a glance
| Spanish | deshidratación |
|---|---|
| Also written | dehydrated |
Related terms
hypotension
Blood pressure lower than normal, generally below 90/60 mm Hg in an adult.
diarrhea
Loose or watery stools, usually three or more times a day or more often than normal for the person.
electrolyte
A mineral that carries an electric charge when dissolved in body fluids, such as sodium, potassium, calcium and chloride.
intake and output
The measured record of all fluids a client takes in and all fluids that leave the body over a set time.
hydr/o
A word part that means water or fluid.