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Which of the following could be a sign of dehydration in a toddler?

  1. Increased urination

  2. Moist mucous membranes

  3. Sunken eyes and lethargy

  4. Weight gain

The correct answer is: Sunken eyes and lethargy

A sign of dehydration in a toddler is often indicated by changes in physical appearance and behavior. The presence of sunken eyes and lethargy suggests that the body is not retaining enough fluids. Sunken eyes occur when there is a lack of hydration, causing the area around the eyes to lose volume, and lethargy can indicate inadequate fluid levels affecting energy and overall activity. In contrast, increased urination typically indicates proper hydration or fluid overload, while moist mucous membranes suggest sufficient hydration. Weight gain is not associated with dehydration; rather, it may reflect fluid retention or other health issues unrelated to hydration status. Therefore, observing sunken eyes and lethargy serves as critical indicators for assessing dehydration in toddlers.