Which of the following is a sign of dehydration?

• A. Increased urine output
• B. Dry mouth
• C. Clear urine
• D. Normal skin elasticity

Answer: (B)

Recognizing dehydration comes down to noticing when fluid in the body is low, which shows up as a dry mouth. When there isn’t enough fluid, saliva production decreases, so the mouth feels dry and uncomfortable. This is a practical sign you can observe during care and often prompts offering fluids per the care plan and monitoring intake.

The other options don’t fit dehydration as well. Increased urine output would suggest normal or excess fluid loss with more fluids being expelled, not a deficit. Clear urine usually indicates good hydration or dilute urine, not dehydration. Normal skin elasticity suggests sufficient hydration, whereas dehydration can cause skin to lose turgor and feel less elastic or dry.

So, a dry mouth is the best indicator among the choices for dehydration.