Dehydration is a frequent diagnosis made in the emergency department (ED) and a common pathway in the observation unit (OU). Gastroenteritis and vomiting are two common causes of dehydration. Patients at the extremities of age are particularly vulnerable to dehydration yet still can be managed effectively in an observation setting. The evaluation of dehydration includes physical and laboratory assessment though both can be nonspecific. Management includes non-invasive versus invasive rehydration as well as electrolyte correction. The first-line therapy of intravenous rehydration is isotonic crystalloid solution. The management of dehydration in an OU is straightforward, typical and effective.

OU patients will be on track to better outcomes, reduced length of stay, all while reducing health care costs.