When assessing a client for signs of dehydration, which assessment finding should be closely monitored?

Decreased urine output is a crucial sign to monitor when assessing for dehydration. This finding occurs because as the body loses fluids, the kidneys respond by conserving water, leading to a reduction in urine production. In cases of dehydration, the body is trying to maintain fluid balance, often resulting in concentrated urine and reduced volume. Monitoring urine output can provide valuable insight into a patient's hydration status, as altered renal function and diminished fluid volume can indicate significant fluid loss.

Other assessment findings, such as increased blood pressure, are generally not associated with dehydration. Instead, dehydration often leads to low blood pressure due to decreased blood volume. Bradycardia, or a slower than normal heart rate, might occur in some cases but is not a primary indicator of dehydration. Increased skin turgor, which reflects good hydration levels, would also not be an appropriate finding to monitor in the context of dehydration, as it typically signifies adequate fluid status rather than a deficit.