What is the first step in managing a patient with suspected dehydration?

Evaluating vital signs is essential in managing a patient with suspected dehydration because it provides immediate and critical information about the patient's hemodynamic status. Vital signs, including heart rate, blood pressure, temperature, and respiratory rate, can indicate the severity of dehydration and guide further treatment decisions. For example, an elevated heart rate or low blood pressure may suggest that the patient is experiencing significant fluid loss and may require urgent intervention.

Once vital signs are assessed, healthcare providers can better determine the appropriate interventions, such as fluid resuscitation or electrolyte replacement. This initial assessment helps establish a baseline for monitoring the patient's response to treatment and guides ongoing care strategies. Understanding the patient's condition through vital signs is a fundamental step before initiating other interventions or therapies.