What might suggest a patient is ready for discharge after receiving treatment for dehydration?

The indication that a patient is ready for discharge after treatment for dehydration primarily relies on the restoration of their normal hydration status. When a patient is dehydrated, the primary goal of treatment is to rehydrate them effectively. This means that clinical signs such as improved output of urine, normalized electrolyte levels, and the patient displaying signs of adequate hydration—such as skin turgor being improved, moist mucous membranes, and an overall improvement in their general condition—should be present.

A decrease in energy levels, prolonged fever, or continued vomiting would indicate that the patient may not yet be fully recovered and could require further medical attention. These conditions suggest ongoing issues that could complicate the treatment or signal additional medical concerns that need management before considering discharge. Thus, the restoration of normal hydration status is a clear and positive sign of readiness for discharge after dehydration treatment.