Which result indicates effective IV therapy in a dehydrated client?

In evaluating effective IV therapy for a dehydrated client, monitoring blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels is critical since dehydration often leads to elevated BUN due to decreased renal perfusion and increased reabsorption of urea in the kidneys.

A BUN level of 16 mg/dL is considered within the normal range for adults, which typically falls between 7 and 20 mg/dL, depending on the laboratory standards. This result suggests that the IV therapy has adequately rehydrated the client, restoring adequate circulating volume and renal function. As a result, the kidneys are processing waste products, including urea, more efficiently, leading to a decrease in BUN levels.

Conversely, higher BUN levels, such as 24 mg/dL, 40 mg/dL, or 12 mg/dL, provide different insights into the patient's status. A BUN of 24 mg/dL may indicate some improvement but is still elevated, potentially showing that the patient has not fully responded to IV therapy. A BUN of 40 mg/dL indicates significant dehydration or ongoing kidney impairment, while a BUN of 12 mg/dL suggests possible overhydration or that the kidneys are functioning very well, which would not directly