HESI (Health and Environmental Sciences Institute) Health Assessment Practice Test

What condition is characterized by decreased skin turgor?

1. Severe obesity

2. Childhood growth spurts

3. Severe dehydration

4. Connective tissue disorders

The correct answer is: Severe dehydration

Decreased skin turgor is primarily a sign of severe dehydration, which occurs when the body loses an excessive amount of fluids and no longer maintains adequate hydration levels. In a well-hydrated individual, the skin is elastic and returns to its original position quickly when pinched. However, when dehydration is present, the skin loses its elasticity, leading to slower return and a lack of firmness. This physiological change reflects the body's diminished fluid levels, confirming severe dehydration as the correct answer. In contrast, severe obesity can impact skin appearance but typically does not directly lead to changes in turgor related to hydration. Childhood growth spurts involve significant physiological changes but are not related to skin turgor. Connective tissue disorders may affect skin quality and elasticity over time, but they do not typically manifest as a change in skin turgor in the context of hydration status.