31st January 2024

Physical observation – red flags

It is important to examine for dehydration and severe starvation syndrome, as these are red flags for admission for refeeding within a physical health capacity. 

Dehydration

• Decreased skin tugor
• Dry mucosal membranes
• Sunken eyes

Starvation Syndrome

• Weight loss >1kg over 2 weeks
• BMI<13
• HR <40
• Systolic BP <90 OR postural hypotension with systolic difference >20mmHg
• Temperature <35.5C
• A raised or normal heart rate in the context of other red flags may be falsely reassuring and often a sign of concurrent infection or dehydration.