A nurse is caring for a toddler who has been vomiting for the past 8 hours.Which of the following findings indicates to the nurse that the child is dehydrated?

Choice A rationaleDehydration generally leads to a decrease in blood pressure due to reduced intravascular volume. Hypovolemia causes compensatory mechanisms like tachycardia rather than increased blood pressure.Choice B rationaleA flat anterior fontanel is a normal finding in toddlers and does not indicate dehydration. Dehydration is more likely to cause sunken fontanels due to tissue fluid loss and reduced intracranial pressure.Choice C rationaleIncreased pulse occurs as the heart compensates for hypovolemia caused by dehydration. The body attempts to maintain adequate oxygen delivery to tissues by enhancing cardiac output through tachycardia. This compensatory mechanism is a key indicator of dehydration.Choice D rationaleDistended jugular veins suggest elevated central venous pressure, commonly seen in fluid overload rather than dehydration. Dehydration reduces venous return, leading to less prominent veins.