Which sign indicates dehydration that could impair wound healing?

Which sign indicates dehydration that could impair wound healing?

• A. Orthostatic dizziness
• B. Tachycardia
• C. Low urine output
• D. Dry mucous membranes

Answer: (D)

Adequate hydration supports wound healing by preserving blood volume and tissue perfusion, which in turn ensures delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the injury site and supports cellular activities needed for repair. Dry mucous membranes directly signal dehydration, reflecting reduced body water and a drier environment at tissue surfaces. When hydration is low, perfusion to the wound can suffer, and processes such as epithelialization and collagen synthesis can be slowed, delaying healing. The other signs—orthostatic dizziness, tachycardia, and low urine output—are important indicators of dehydration overall, but they are less specific to the wound environment itself. Thus, dry mucous membranes best indicate dehydration that could impair wound healing.

Adequate hydration supports wound healing by preserving blood volume and tissue perfusion, which in turn ensures delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the injury site and supports cellular activities needed for repair. Dry mucous membranes directly signal dehydration, reflecting reduced body water and a drier environment at tissue surfaces. When hydration is low, perfusion to the wound can suffer, and processes such as epithelialization and collagen synthesis can be slowed, delaying healing. The other signs—orthostatic dizziness, tachycardia, and low urine output—are important indicators of dehydration overall, but they are less specific to the wound environment itself. Thus, dry mucous membranes best indicate dehydration that could impair wound healing.