Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 85%
Simulated
A nurse is assessing a client who reports nausea and vomiting for 2 days. Which of the following indicates fluid volume deficit?
Correct answer
D
Rationale
The correct answer is D: Increased pulse rate. In fluid volume deficit, the body compensates by increasing heart rate to maintain adequate circulation. Decreased hematocrit (A) is seen in fluid volume excess. Decreased specific gravity of urine (B) indicates dilution, not fluid deficit. Increased skin turgor (C) is a sign of dehydration, not specifically fluid volume deficit. So, increased pulse rate (D) is the best indicator of fluid volume deficit in this scenario.