In case of suspected dehydration in a child, what should the nurse monitor closely?

When assessing a child for suspected dehydration, monitoring blood pressure is essential since changes can indicate the severity of the condition. In dehydration, a drop in blood volume can lead to hypotension (low blood pressure), which is a critical parameter to observe. Since children are particularly vulnerable to shifts in their fluid status, noticing any significant drop in blood pressure can provide immediate insight into their physiological response to dehydration, helping to determine the urgency of intervention.

While other factors such as heart rate, skin temperature, and fluid intake are also important in a comprehensive assessment of a child’s hydration status, blood pressure directly reflects the cardiovascular response to dehydration. As the child's body compensates for fluid loss, heart rate often increases, and skin temperature changes may occur; however, tracking blood pressure provides a clearer picture of hemodynamic stability and potential shock, guiding timely treatment decisions.