When assessing a child for signs of dehydration, which symptom should a nurse look for?

Dry mucous membranes are a key indicator of dehydration in children. When the body loses fluids, the oral mucosa becomes less hydrated, leading to a dry appearance in the mouth and throat. This sign is particularly relevant because it reflects the body’s inability to maintain adequate moisture levels due to insufficient fluid intake or excessive fluid loss.

In contrast, increased energy levels would not be consistent with dehydration, as children typically exhibit fatigue or lethargy when dehydrated. Frequent urination often indicates adequate hydration rather than dehydration; in fact, decreased urine output is a more concerning sign of fluid deficiency. Bright red cheeks can occur due to various reasons, including fever or increased blood flow but are not a reliable indicator of dehydration. The presence of dry mucous membranes is a clear and direct symptom a nurse should assess for when evaluating a child’s hydration status.