Pediatric ATI Practice Exam

What is a common symptom of severe dehydration that requires monitoring in a child?

1. Increased thirst

2. Decreased urinary output

3. Skin irritations

4. Increased appetite

The correct answer is: Decreased urinary output

Decreased urinary output is indeed a common symptom of severe dehydration in children that necessitates careful monitoring. When a child becomes dehydrated, the body conserves water to maintain essential functions, which results in a significant decrease in the volume of urine produced. This decrease indicates that the child is not adequately hydrating and may be at risk for more serious complications associated with dehydration, such as kidney damage or shock. In children, urine output is an important indicator of hydration status; a healthy child typically produces enough urine throughout the day. Monitoring urinary output is crucial because it helps assess the effectiveness of rehydration efforts and overall fluid balance. This aspect underscores the importance of recognizing early signs of dehydration for timely intervention and care. In contrast, increased thirst reflects the body's natural response to dehydration, skin irritations may stem from factors unrelated to hydration, and an increased appetite is not generally a concern associated with dehydration. Therefore, recognizing and responding to decreased urinary output is vital in managing severe dehydration in pediatric patients.