HESI RN CAT Exit Exam Related

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A 2-year-old boy with short bowel syndrome has progressed to receiving enteral feedings only. Today his stools are occurring more frequently and have a more liquid consistency. His temperature is 102.2°F and he has vomited twice in the past four hours. Which assessment finding indicates that the child is becoming dehydrated?

  • A. Occult blood in the stool
  • B. Abdominal distention
  • C. Elevated urine specific gravity
  • D. Hyperactive bowel sounds
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Step 1: Elevated urine specific gravity indicates increased concentration of urine, a sign of dehydration.
Step 2: In dehydration, the body conserves water, leading to concentrated urine.
Step 3: The child's symptoms (increased stools, liquid consistency, fever, vomiting) suggest dehydration.
Step 4: Other choices (A: occult blood, B: distention, D: hyperactive bowel sounds) are not specific to dehydration.
Summary: Elevated urine specific gravity is key as it directly reflects dehydration, unlike the other choices which are not specific indicators of dehydration.