An 82-Year-Old Patient Is Admitted to the Hospital from the Long-Term

An 82-year-old patient is admitted to the hospital from the long-term care facility with a diagnosis of pneumonia and dehydration.Her mental status is at baseline,she has dry mucous membranes,and she reports feeling "very tired." What is the first line of treatment for her?

A) Administer intravenous fluids with 0.9 sodium chloride at a minimum of 1 L/day.
B) Administer oral fluids at a minimum of 2 to 3 L of clear fluids.
C) Administer intravenous fluids with 0.9 sodium chloride at the rate of 1 L/hr.
D) Assess the patient's intake and output because this is the most accurate way of assessing fluid status.