The nurse detects a possible extra heart sound while assessing an adult client. To verify this finding, which action should the nurse take?

A. Tenting of the skin is a classic sign of dehydration. When the skin is pinched and does not return quickly to its normal position, it indicates a lack of fluid in the body. This is a common finding in dehydration, particularly in older adults.
B. Loss of skin elasticity is a natural part of the aging process and may not be directly related to dehydration. It is common in older adults and is not necessarily an indicator of fluid status.
C. Warm and dry skin can be a sign of dehydration, particularly if accompanied by other symptoms such as a dry mouth or increased heart rate. Dry skin occurs when there is insufficient moisture in the body, which is common in dehydration.
D. Thinning hair in the lower extremities is more often associated with circulation issues or aging. It is not a typical sign of dehydration and would not be used as a primary indicator for assessing hydration status.

A. Assessing the client's functional capacity and identifying potential environmental hazards is essential, especially in older adults, as they may face physical limitations or risks in their environment that could impact their safety and quality of life.
B. Medication history is always important, particularly in older adults who may be taking multiple medications for chronic conditions. However, while relevant, it is not the most critical aspect in this scenario.
C. Differentiating between symptoms of aging and those caused by disease is important for accurate diagnosis and treatment. However, the priority should be to assess the client's overall health and risks related to their daily function and environment.
D. While discussing advance directives is essential for future care planning, it is not the immediate priority in this health history assessment. The focus should be on addressing any current health issues that impact the client’s quality of life.