Exams and Tests

The doctor will perform a thorough history and physical exam in an effort to determine the severity and cause of the dehydration. .

• Specific laboratory tests may be ordered.
  
  
  • A complete blood count may identify an infection.
    
    
  • Blood cultures may identify the specific kind of infection.
    
    
  • Blood chemistries may identify electrolyte abnormalities caused by vomiting and diarrhea
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  • Urinalysis may identify bladder infection, may give evidence of the severity of dehydration, and may identify sugar and ketones in urine (evidence of uncontrolled diabetes).
  
  
• In some cases, the doctor may order other tests, such as a chest x-ray, a test to check for rotavirus, stool cultures, or lumbar puncture (a spinal tap).