What clinical manifestations might a nurse expect in a client admitted with dehydration?

In a client admitted with dehydration, the clinical manifestations that are most likely to be expected include oliguria and hypotension. Oliguria, which is a decreased output of urine, can occur due to the body conserving fluids in response to a deficit. The kidneys may reduce urine production as a compensatory mechanism to maintain intravascular volume.

Hypotension, or low blood pressure, can result from dehydration as there is a decrease in blood volume. This reduced volume translates to less blood returning to the heart, leading to decreased cardiac output and, consequently, lower blood pressure.

These manifestations are critical indicators of the body's response to dehydration and reflect its efforts to maintain homeostasis despite the fluid deficit that the body is experiencing. Recognizing oliguria and hypotension in a dehydrated client are essential for timely interventions and management to prevent complications such as shock or renal failure.

In contrast, while fever and chills, nausea and vomiting, and skin rash and itching may indicate various health issues or conditions, they are not primary or direct clinical manifestations typically associated with dehydration itself.