Understanding Hypernatremia in Dehydration

A patient presents with signs of dehydration, including dry mucous membranes, decreased urine output, and increased heart rate. The nurse suspects that the patient may have an imbalance in their fluid status.

The nurse is aware that the normal range for serum sodium levels is between 135 mEq/L and 145 mEq/L. In cases of dehydration, serum sodium levels can reflect fluid status. If a patient's sodium level is found to be 150 mEq/L, the nurse must recognize that this indicates a condition called __________.