Which is a common complication to monitor for in a patient with untreated hyperglycemia and dehydration?

In the context of untreated hyperglycemia and dehydration, acute renal failure is a significant complication to monitor for due to the effects of high blood sugar levels on kidney function. Hyperglycemia can lead to osmotic diuresis, resulting in increased urination and considerable fluid loss, which also contributes to dehydration. The combination of high blood glucose concentrations and dehydration can compromise renal perfusion, leading to acute kidney injury.

When the kidneys do not receive adequate blood flow, they cannot filter waste products effectively, which can quickly escalate to acute renal failure, particularly in the presence of pre-existing renal impairment or additional risk factors such as hypertension or atherosclerosis.

Monitoring kidney function through serum creatinine and urine output is essential in these patients to detect any early signs of renal compromise.

While dialysis dependence, sepsis, and heart failure are serious complications that could arise in patients with hyperglycemia and dehydration, they are less directly linked to the immediate effects of uncontrolled hyperglycemia and severe dehydration compared to acute renal failure. Recognizing and addressing acute renal failure early can potentially prevent progression to more severe complications in these patients.