Which finding most clearly signals dehydration in a patient with three days of vomiting and diarrhea?

Which finding most clearly signals dehydration in a patient with three days of vomiting and diarrhea?

• A. Loss of body weight
• B. Weight gain
• C. Increased appetite
• D. Brighter mood

Answer: (A)

Dehydration shows up most clearly as loss of body weight because fluid loss reduces total body water. With several days of vomiting and diarrhea, you’re shedding water and electrolytes, and the scale will reflect that deficit. The other options don’t indicate fluid loss: gaining weight suggests fluid retention, increased appetite isn’t tied to dehydration, and a brighter mood isn’t a sign of dehydration.

Dehydration shows up most clearly as loss of body weight because fluid loss reduces total body water. With several days of vomiting and diarrhea, you’re shedding water and electrolytes, and the scale will reflect that deficit. The other options don’t indicate fluid loss: gaining weight suggests fluid retention, increased appetite isn’t tied to dehydration, and a brighter mood isn’t a sign of dehydration.