Which assessment finding is most consistent with dehydration in an older adult?

• A. Edema
• B. Bounding pulse
• C. Poor skin turgor
• D. Moist mucous membranes

Answer: (C)

Dehydration reduces the fluid in tissues, leading to a loss of skin elasticity. Poor skin turgor is a classic finding because when you pinch the skin, it remains tented or returns to position slowly rather than quickly. Edema signals fluid overload, so it does not fit dehydration. A bounding pulse suggests a strong, full heartbeat often seen with excess fluid or other conditions, not the decreased volume seen in dehydration. Moist mucous membranes indicate hydration; in dehydration you’d expect dry mucous membranes. So the skin’s reduced elasticity best reflects the fluid deficit in an older adult. Remember that aging can blunt signs, but poor skin turgor along with other clues like dry mouth and decreased urine output still points toward dehydration.