What is Dehydration
Dehydration is the loss of needed
body water through the process of
sweating, evaporation; or simply when
the body loses more fluid then is re-
placed. It occurs when an individual
does not drink enough fluids.
Fluids are needed for temperature
control, chemical balance and for cells
to make energy and get rid of waste
products.
In people with developmental disabili-
ties there are several issues that place
this population at risk. Common areas
of concern include:
Immobility or physical limitations
where individuals cannot access
fluids independently.
Dysphagia or discoordination of
swallow mechanisms with refusal
of fluids in an attempt to protect
their airway.
Suppression of thirst mechanism so
individuals do not recognize when
they are thirsty.
Speech/communication limitations
preventing individuals from effectively
requesting something to drink when
they are thirsty.
Medical conditions where fluid loss
can potentially cause dehydration if
not monitored and treated appropri-
ately, i.e. kidney disease, altered ADH
levels, diabetes mellitus, and diabetes
insipidus.
Cerebral palsy or other medical condi-
tions where poor oral control is exhib-
ited and the individual loses body
fluid through drooling excessively.
Medications that affect body fluid bal-
ance.
Marginal fluid intake.
Risk Factors for Dehydration
There are a long list of factors that may
put people at risk for dehydration. This list
includes vomiting and diarrhea, excessive
sweating, fever, undiagnosed or uncon-
trolled diabetes and the taking of medica-
tions, such as those that are used to con-
trol blood pressure.
Moreover, dehydration of people with de-
velopmental disabilities is exacerbated by
some unique challenges.
D I VI S I O N O F D E V E L O P M E N T A L D I S A B I L I T I E S S E R V IC E S
Volume 4, Issue 11
December 15, 2011
A Publication of the Office of
Training and Professional
Development
The Fatal Four: Dehydration
A Major Challenge that Impacts People
with Developmental Disabilities
Dehydration
Assessment
The following systems
and characteristics
should be monitored in
order to recognize possi-
ble dehydration:
Circulatory
Fast heart rate
Low blood pressure
Decreased urine output
Dark concentrated
urine
Skin
Dry
Less elastic
Sticky mucous in
mouth
Dry lips
Warm to touch
Neurological
Dizziness
Weakness
Confusion
Decreased alertness
Seizures
Coma
Gastrointestinal
Decreased/hyperactive
bowel tones
Distended, firm abdo-
men
Psychosocial
Transition can interfere
with fluid intake (new
staff or person in
home)
Depression
Serving People with Disabilities in Community Settings
