Question

Imagine that tina has been vomiting for the past 24 hours and has not received intravenous fluids (ivf). furthermore, her mucus membranes are dry. what else could you do to assess hydration

Answer 1

First of all we could start by verifying the clinical history. We could review past health complications, as well as present diagnosis that might be conditioning the hydration. Look for signs or symptoms such as lightheadedness, variations on the input/output of fluids, altered mental accuracy, etc. Recent gut problems and other bowels' problems should also be reviewed. Current medication should also be considered.
From a physical examination point of view, there should be a checking of vital signs, and evaluation of orthostatic blood pressure and any considerable swallowing.

Answer 2

Mucus membranes is a physical examination for assessing hydration. Other methods of physical examination would be assessing the turgor of the skin, capillary refill time in the finger, heart rate, and blood pressure. The more advanced assessment would be central venous pressure using a catheter, but it is invasive.