How is % dehydration calculated?

The calculation of percentage dehydration is based on the weight loss of an individual due to illness, compared to their normal weight. The formula used is derived from the difference between the normal weight and the ill weight.

Using the formula, you subtract the ill weight from the normal weight to determine how much weight has been lost, which effectively represents fluid loss. This difference is then divided by the normal weight to find the proportion of weight lost as a percentage of the normal weight. Finally, multiplying by 100 converts this fraction into a percentage, which allows for an easy understanding of the degree of dehydration.

Thus, the formula reflects the relationship of lost weight to normal weight, highlighting the percentage of fluid deficiency in the body, making it the correct approach to calculate % dehydration.