What finding should a nurse expect in the lab results of a client with a high urine specific gravity indicating dehydration?

Study for the ATI Reduction of Risk Potential Test. Prepare with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each supported by hints and explanations. Achieve excellence in your exam!

A high urine specific gravity is an important indicator of dehydration, as it reflects the kidneys' ability to concentrate urine due to a lack of fluid. The normal range for urine specific gravity is typically between 1.005 and 1.030. When a client is dehydrated, the body conserves water, resulting in more concentrated urine, which is reflected in a higher specific gravity reading.

In this context, a urine specific gravity of 1.035 is a clear indicator of dehydration. This value is above the normal range, illustrating that the urine is concentrated due to the body's effort to retain water in response to decreased fluid intake or increased fluid loss. The higher the specific gravity, the more concentrated the urine is, indicating a greater degree of dehydration.

The other values listed fall either within the normal range or indicate a lower level of concentration, suggesting hydration rather than dehydration. Therefore, the finding of 1.035 is expected in a lab result for a client experiencing dehydration.

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