Which is a sign of dehydration you should report?

• A. Dry mouth
• B. Increased urine output
• C. Warm skin
• D. Increased appetite

Answer: (A)

Dehydration shows up as the body losing more fluid than it takes in, and one of the first clues is a dry mouth. When fluid is low, saliva production drops, leaving the mouth feeling dry and lips perhaps cracked. This is a signal you should report because it points to a developing fluid deficit that needs assessment and possible fluid replacement. The other options don’t fit dehydration as reliably: increased urine output suggests more fluid is being eliminated or normal functioning, warm skin isn’t a specific dehydration sign by itself, and increased appetite isn’t related to a lack of fluids. Noting dry mouth helps catch dehydration early and keeps the patient safer.