The nurse is caring for a patient who experienced a closed head injury 6 days ago. The patient's urine output over the previous 24 hours was 10,000 mL. Total intake for the same period was 1,200 mL. Diabetes insipidus (DI) has been diagnosed. Which order would the nurse question?
0.2 mg IM daily

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The nurse would question the order for Desmopressin because it is not the appropriate medication for treating diabetes insipidus caused by a closed head injury. Desmopressin is mainly used for central diabetes insipidus, which occurs when there is a problem with the body's production of antidiuretic hormone (ADH). In a closed head injury, the problem is typically related to damage to the pituitary gland or hypothalamus, which can disrupt the secretion of ADH. The nurse would instead anticipate orders for monitoring electrolyte levels and imaging studies (such as CT or MRI) to evaluate the extent of the injury and potential damage to the endocrine system. The nurse would also encourage increased oral fluid intake to help compensate for the excessive urine output.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Patient Who Experienced a Closed