Which of the following is a sign of moderate dehydration in infants?

• A. Increased appetite
• B. Regular tears
• C. Sudden weight gain
• D. Loss of skin turgor

Answer: (D)

Loss of skin turgor is the sign that best fits moderate dehydration in infants. When you gently pinch the skin, if it does not snap back promptly and remains tented, it shows reduced skin elasticity from fluid loss, which is a hallmark of dehydration at a moderate level. Other options don’t indicate dehydration: increased appetite isn’t related to fluid status, regular tears suggest adequate tear production and hydration of the eyes, and sudden weight gain isn’t a sign of dehydration (dehydration typically causes weight loss). So the presence of delayed skin return after pinching the skin is the most indicative sign of moderate dehydration in infants.