Direct Support Professional (DSP) Practice Test

A person can indeed become dehydrated as a result of diarrhea, and this is because diarrhea increases the loss of fluids and electrolytes from the body. When a person experiences diarrhea, the body expels a larger volume of water than normal, leading to a significant reduction in overall fluid balance. If these fluids are not adequately replaced, dehydration can occur quickly. This is especially critical to monitor in vulnerable populations, such as young children or elderly individuals, who may not have as much fluid reserve. Recognizing the importance of hydration is key to preventing serious complications associated with dehydration, such as kidney issues or electrolyte imbalances.