Vitals & Visuals (Assessment Basics)
This is considered the best measure of dehydration in children.
Weight loss is the best measure of dehydration.
1
Which age group is at highest risk for severe dehydration?
Infants under 6 months.
What is a typical symptom of mild dehydration in children?
Thirst
What is the preferred route of rehydration unless dehydration is severe or the child is in shock?
Enteral rehydration (oral or NG).
What does altered mental status in a dehydrated child indicate?
Possible shock requiring urgent escalation.
What must be given immediately if a child is haemodynamically unstable?
Immediate IV fluid boluses are required.
1
Which genetic condition increases dehydration risk due to GI and respiratory involvement?
cystic fibrosis
What peripheral sign can appear in moderate dehydration?
Cool hands and feet.
What type of fluid should be used for oral rehydration?
Oral rehydration solution (ORS) such as Gastrolyte or Hydralyte.
What is the most common cause of dehydration in children with vomiting and diarrhoea?
Gastroenteritis-associated dehydration.
What critical condition must always be considered in a shocked child?
Sepsis must be considered.
Name one gastrointestinal condition that increases dehydration risk.
Short gut syndrome.
What eye-related sign indicates severe dehydration?
Sunken eyes. no tears dry eyes
What method is the best for monitoring acute changes in fluid status?
Serial weights
What must ED staff rule out in a tachycardic, poorly perfused dehydrated child?
Sepsis.
Which clinical indicators can assist in estimating the severity of dehydration, even though they are often not fully reliable?
mucous membranes and central cap refill
1
Which cardiac condition group carries higher dehydration risk?
Children with complex or cyanotic congenital heart disease.
What skin appearance is common in severe dehydration?
Mottled (patchy reddish‑blue) skin.
What is the most reliable clinical indicator of improving or worsening hydration status?
Weight monitoring (serial weights).
Which lab value must be closely monitored in children at risk of increased ADH secretion?
Serum sodium.
Which two weights provide the most accurate assessment of dehydration percentage?
Pre‑illness weight compared to current weight
Which common medication class increases dehydration and electrolyte imbalance risk?
Diuretics.
What change in urine output occurs with moderate to severe dehydration?
Decreased or absent urine output.
What investigations should be monitored in infants or children with significant losses?
Glucose and electrolytes.
What is the preferred treatment method that leads to quicker recovery in most paediatric dehydration cases?
Enteral rehydration.