Which assessment finding supports dehydration in an older adult?

• A. Dry mucous membranes
• B. Edematous ankles
• C. Bibasilar crackles
• D. Jaundice

Answer: (A)

Dehydration decreases total body water and reduces secretions in mucous membranes, so the membranes become dry. In older adults, this dryness is a direct sign that intravascular volume is low and fluid balance is off toward hypovolemia, making dry mucous membranes a reliable indicator of dehydration. Edematous ankles point to fluid excess in the tissues, not a deficit of fluid. Bibasilar crackles often indicate fluid in the lungs or edema, again not dehydration, and jaundice signals liver or biliary issues rather than hydration status. So the dryness of mucous membranes best reflects reduced hydration.