Which laboratory finding would indicate that a client is at risk for dehydration?

Elevated blood urea nitrogen (BUN) is an important laboratory finding that indicates a risk of dehydration. BUN levels increase when there is a reduced volume of blood flow to the kidneys, often due to dehydration, leading to the accumulation of nitrogenous waste products in the blood. When the body is dehydrated, fluid levels drop, which in turn can result in a higher concentration of urea in the bloodstream. This occurs because there is less plasma volume available to dilute the urea, leading to an elevated BUN value.

While other parameters, such as increased hematocrit, can also suggest dehydration since they indicate a higher concentration of red blood cells due to lower plasma volume, the BUN is a more direct indicator of kidney function and hydration status. Therefore, an elevated BUN is a reliable marker for assessing dehydration risk, particularly when considered alongside clinical assessments and other laboratory values.