Skin turgor is a sign commonly used by health care workers to assess the degree of fluid loss or dehydration .
Fluid loss can occur from common conditions such as diarrhea or vomiting .
Infants and young children with vomiting, diarrhea, and decreased or no fluid intake can rapidly lose a significant amount of fluid. The skin on the back of the hand, lower arm or abdomen is grasped between two fingers so that it is tented up. The skin is held for a few seconds then released. Skin with normal turgor snaps rapidly back to its normal position. Skin with decreased turgor remains elevated and returns slowly to its normal position.