What indicates a fluid volume deficit in an infant?

In infants, the state of the fontanelles—the soft spots on the skull—can provide important clues about their hydration status. A depressed fontanelle is a classic sign of fluid volume deficit or dehydration. When an infant is dehydrated, the body's fluid levels drop, which can lead to a sunken appearance of the soft spots on their head. This occurs as the surrounding tissues lose turgor and the overall volume of fluids decreases.

In contrast, swollen fontanelles can indicate increased intracranial pressure, which is not related to hydration status. Discoloration of the skin may indicate various conditions, including bruising or poor perfusion, but it does not specifically relate to fluid volume deficits. An increased body temperature may suggest infection or fever rather than hydration status. Therefore, recognizing a depressed fontanelle is critical for assessing an infant’s hydration levels and identifying potential fluid volume deficits effectively.