CCFP 105 Topics: Dehydration

Written By: Darrell Vandenbrink Peer Review By: Chris Cochrane Expert Review By: Dr. Adrienne Stedford Objective One: When assessing the acutely ill patient, look for signs and symptoms of dehydration. (e.g., look for dehydration in the patient with a debilitating pneumonia). Objective Two: In the dehydrated patient, assess the degree of dehydration using reliable indicators (e.g., vital signs) as some patients' hydration status may be more difficult to assess (e.g., elderly, very young, pregnant). Objective Three: In a dehydrated patient, Determine the appropriate volume of fluid for replacement of deficiency and ongoing needs Use the appropriate route (oral if the patient is able; IV when necessary). Objective Four: When treating severe dehydration, use objective measures (e.g., lab values) to direct ongoing management. Objective Five: In a dehydrated patient Identify the precipitating illness or cause, especially looking for non-gastro-intestinal, including drug-related, causes Treat the precipitating illness concurrently. Objective Six: Treat the dehydrated pregnant patient aggressively, as there are additional risks of dehydration in pregnancy.