Severe dehydration manifests through various symptoms that nurses should be vigilant about. These include:
Extreme Thirst: Patients often feel an insatiable need to drink water. Dry Mouth and Skin: Mucous membranes and skin lose moisture, appearing dry and cracked. Sunken Eyes: The eyes may appear sunken and dark circles may develop. Rapid Heartbeat: The heart may beat faster to compensate for the decreased blood volume. Low Blood Pressure: A significant drop in blood pressure can occur, leading to dizziness and fainting. Decreased Urine Output: Urine becomes dark yellow, and the frequency of urination decreases. Confusion and Lethargy: Mental status changes, including confusion and lethargy, are common.
