A nurse reviewing lab results for a client with fluid volume deficit expects to find which urine specific gravity?

In a client with fluid volume deficit, the concentration of their urine is expected to be higher, which is reflected in a urine specific gravity measurement. This is because, when the body is experiencing a deficit of fluids, it retains water in order to maintain homeostasis and concentrate the urine.

A urine specific gravity of 1.035 indicates concentrated urine, which aligns with the body's response to dehydration. In cases of fluid volume deficit, the kidneys conserve water, leading to a smaller volume of more concentrated urine. This higher specific gravity reflects the presence of more solutes in the urine as a result of fluid retention efforts by the body.

In contrast, a urine specific gravity closer to 1.005 would indicate dilute urine, which is not typical in a state of fluid volume deficit. Values around 1.020 suggest a normal concentration, while anything significantly higher than 1.035 might indicate an excessive level of concentration, potentially pointing to other issues rather than just fluid volume deficit.

Thus, the choice of 1.035 as the specific gravity aligns with what would be expected in this clinical scenario.