An older adult with dehydration presents to urgent care with poor skin turgor and dark urine; what is a priority nursing action?

• A. Administer antiemetic
• B. Prepare intravenous fluids
• C. Offer oral fluids
• D. Obtain CT scan

Answer: (B)

Restoring circulating volume quickly is the priority when an older adult shows signs of dehydration. Poor skin turgor and dark urine indicate fluid deficit that can lead to hypovolemia and reduced perfusion of vital organs. Administering intravenous fluids is the fastest and most reliable way to rehydrate in urgent care, support kidney function, and allow ongoing assessment and lab testing. Oral fluids may be used if the patient can tolerate them and is not at risk for continued vomiting, but they’re slower and may be insufficient in an acute setting. An antiemetic helps nausea but doesn’t address the dehydration itself, and a CT scan isn’t indicated based on dehydration alone unless another presenting issue suggests imaging is needed. After starting IV fluids, monitor vital signs, urine output, and labs to guide further treatment.