ATI Capstone Comprehensive Assessment B Related

Review ATI Capstone Comprehensive Assessment B related questions and content

A healthcare provider is assessing a patient with dehydration. Which finding indicates the patient's condition is worsening?

  • A. Dry mucous membranes.
  • B. Tachycardia and low blood pressure.
  • C. Bradycardia and shallow respirations.
  • D. Clear lung sounds.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Tachycardia and low blood pressure are indicative of worsening dehydration in a patient. Tachycardia is the body's compensatory mechanism to maintain cardiac output in response to decreased intravascular volume, while low blood pressure reflects inadequate perfusion due to decreased fluid levels. Bradycardia and shallow respirations are not typical findings in worsening dehydration, and clear lung sounds do not directly correlate with the severity of dehydration.