Dehydration Lab Values. If the sodium level is lower than the laboratory s quoted range then the patient has hypotonic dehydration. Look at the potassium level. Mild dehydration can be treated in most healthy adults by drinking more water. Typically laboratory testing is not required for moderate or mild dehydration.
If it is lower than the laboratory s quoted range then hypotonic dehydration may be at fault. Total serum protein and hematocrit provide a rough estimate of reduction in circulating blood volume but calculation from these data will usu. If the sodium level is lower than the laboratory s quoted range then the patient has hypotonic dehydration. This is caused by the rapid loss of electrolytes from medicines such as diuretics or water pills. Look at the potassium level. Typically laboratory testing is not required for moderate or mild dehydration.
A dehydration diagnosis is often based on clinical symptoms and signs and appropriate treatment is provided.
If it is lower than the laboratory s quoted range then hypotonic dehydration may be at fault. In an otherwise healthy child with acute dehydration known to be due to diarrhea or vomiting the amount of deficit can best be estimated by accurate weight. Still various non laboratory evaluations might be used for assessing a person with more serious symptoms and signs. Total serum protein and hematocrit provide a rough estimate of reduction in circulating blood volume but calculation from these data will usu. The equivalent of 8 glasses of fluids per day for women and 12 glasses of fluids per day for men including that derived from foods with high water content vegetables fruits is adequate to maintain proper hydration. Typically laboratory testing is not required for moderate or mild dehydration.