A nurse is caring for a client who has dehydration and reports muscle cramps and constipation. Which of the following laboratory values should the nurse expect?

Rationale A. Decreased serum potassium: Dehydration can lead to electrolyte imbalances, including hypokalemia. Muscle cramps and constipation are common signs of low potassium levels, as potassium is essential for normal muscle and nerve function. Monitoring electrolytes helps guide appropriate replacement therapy. B. Decreased BUN: Dehydration typically causes an elevation in BUN due to hemoconcentration and reduced renal perfusion. A decreased BUN would not be expected in fluid volume deficit. C. Decreased hematocrit (Hct): Hematocrit usually increases during dehydration because of reduced plasma volume, leading to hemoconcentration. A decreased Hct would suggest anemia or fluid overload, not dehydration. D. Decreased specific gravity: Specific gravity of urine increases with dehydration as the kidneys concentrate urine to conserve water. A decreased specific gravity indicates diluted urine, which is not consistent with fluid deficit.