The nurse is caring for a client who is at risk for altered fluid balance. Which signs and symptoms of dehydration would the nurse expect to find in this client? Select all that apply.

  • bounding pulses
  • increased hematocrit
  • orthostatic hypotension
  • diminished bowel sounds
  • decreased urine specific gravity
Numbers 2, 3, and 4 are correct.
Clients with dehydration experience increased hematocrit, orthostatic (postural) hypotension, and diminished bowel sounds. Thready pulses are a sign of dehydration. Bounding pulses would be found in clients with fluid volume excess. Urine specific gravity increases in clients with dehydration.