All of the following statements regarding a child with hypernatremic dehydration are true Except
There is at least a 10 percent fluid deficit
Rapid rehydration is indicated
Muscle tone is increased
The sensorium fluctuates between lethargy and hyperirritability
Signs of hypernatremic dehydration include dry rubbery skin, increased muscle tone, and altered level of consciousness. A hypernatremic child should be rehydrated slowly to avoid a rapid reexpansion of intracellular volume that could lead to cerebral edema. A good guide is to replace the fluid deficit over 48 to 72 h. Serum sodium should not be lowered more than 10 to 15 mEq/L over 24 h. Reference: GHAI Essential pediatrics, 8th edition, Nutrition Chapter
Nutrition