Which is a sign of dehydration in an infant?

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Decreased urination is a classic sign of dehydration in infants. When an infant is adequately hydrated, they typically produce a certain amount of urine, which shows proper kidney function and fluid intake. A noticeable reduction in the frequency of urination, such as fewer wet diapers than usual, can indicate that the infant is not receiving enough fluids, which is a primary concern in assessing dehydration.

In infants, other signs of dehydration can include dry mouth, lack of tears when crying, and lethargy. While increased thirst is a common response to dehydration in older children and adults, infants may not exhibit this behavior in the same way. A high fever can occur for various reasons and is not a straightforward indicator of dehydration. Additionally, a skin rash can relate to many conditions and does not specifically signal dehydration, making decreased urination a more direct and reliable indicator of the infant's hydration status.