Which of the following is NOT a typical sign of dehydration in an infant?

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Multiple Choice

Which of the following is NOT a typical sign of dehydration in an infant?

Noting dehydration in an infant relies on signs that reflect fluid loss and reduced perfusion. Absent urine output shows the kidneys aren’t receiving or retaining enough fluid, which is a direct cue of dehydration. A sunken fontanelle indicates the soft spot on the head is receding due to decreased hydration, and decreased tearing signals reduced lacrimal production that accompanies fluid deficit. Moist oral mucosa, by contrast, suggests the mouth is well hydrated and argues against dehydration. So this sign isn’t typical of dehydration; instead, it points to adequate hydration. In real clinical scenarios, you’d evaluate multiple signs together rather than relying on a single cue.

Noting dehydration in an infant relies on signs that reflect fluid loss and reduced perfusion. Absent urine output shows the kidneys aren’t receiving or retaining enough fluid, which is a direct cue of dehydration. A sunken fontanelle indicates the soft spot on the head is receding due to decreased hydration, and decreased tearing signals reduced lacrimal production that accompanies fluid deficit. Moist oral mucosa, by contrast, suggests the mouth is well hydrated and argues against dehydration. So this sign isn’t typical of dehydration; instead, it points to adequate hydration. In real clinical scenarios, you’d evaluate multiple signs together rather than relying on a single cue.

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