In dehydration assessment of infants, which sign indicates dehydration?

• A. Lack of tears when crying
• B. Tears when crying are present
• C. Rapid blinking
• D. Sweating on the forehead

Answer: (A)

Tear production reflects fluid balance in an infant. When dehydration occurs, the body conserves fluids and tear output decreases, so a crying infant who has no tears is a practical and useful sign of dehydration. Tears present with crying usually indicate that hydration is better. Rapid blinking isn’t a typical dehydration cue in infants, and sweating on the forehead isn’t a reliable indicator in this age group. For a fuller picture, combine this sign with other clues like dry mucous membranes, fewer wet diapers, and possible sunken fontanelle or skin turgor changes.