Which information obtained by the nurse when caring for a patient who has diabetes insipidus (DI) is most important to report to the health care provider?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient's confusion and lethargy may indicate hypernatremia and should be addressed quickly. In addition, patients with DI compensate for fluid losses by drinking copious amounts of fluids, but a patient who is lethargic will be unable to drink enough fluids and will become hypovolemic. A high urine output, low urine specific gravity, and history of a recent head injury are consistent with diabetes insipidus, but they do not require immediate nursing action to avoid life-threatening complications.

Which Information Obtained by the Nurse When Caring for a Patient