At what acuity level is a 56-year-old client with poor skin turgor and a GCS of 13 categorized?

A 56-year-old client presenting with poor skin turgor suggests dehydration or possibly an underlying condition affecting fluid balance, which can indicate the need for closer observation and potential intervention. Additionally, a Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score of 13 indicates a mildly altered consciousness. A GCS score of 13 typically suggests that the patient is responsive and may be able to follow commands, but it also indicates the potential for deterioration, especially in a setting like an emergency department.

In triage systems, patients are categorized based on their acuity level, which reflects the urgency of their condition and the need for immediate care. Given the combination of signs—poor skin turgor and a GCS of 13—the client is not in immediate life-threatening danger, but they do require timely evaluation and treatment. This situation aligns with an acuity level that is above routine but not requiring the absolute emergence of life-saving interventions right away.

Thus, this patient would be categorized at acuity level 3, indicating they are stable but require care soon and should not be delayed in receiving treatment due to their moderate level of concern.