Are the causes and consequences of the patients dehydration or fluid/electrolyte imbalance to be treated?
If it is decided to treat the causes of the patient’s dehydration or fluid/electrolyte imbalance or to intervene to correct or prevent a fluid deficit or electrolyte imbalance, proceed to Step 7. If the cause of the patient’s dehydration is not clear, continue to look for that cause while providing appropriate support and symptomatic management. If it is decided not to treat or intervene because the patient has a terminal or end-stage condition or because the patient or family has requested no intervention, or for any other valid clinical reason, document the reasons for this decision in the patient’s medical record. Step 7 Develop and implement an interdisciplinary care plan. The interdisciplinary team involved in managing fluid/electrolyte balance should include certified nursing assistants (CNAs), registered or licensed nurses, the physician, and dietary staff. Other clinicians who may be involved as needed include the consultant pharmacist, psychiatrist, psychologist, speech pathol
