A child is hospitalized after a serious motor vehicle crash and has developed increased urination.What action by the nurse takes priority?
A) Weigh the child daily.
B) Monitor the child's intake and output.
C) Assess the daily serum sodium level.
D) Restrict dietary sodium intake.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This child might have diabetes insipidus; being in a car crash has the potential for a head injury.That coupled with frequent urination leads the nurse to suspect DI.A high serum sodium and low urine specific gravity are hallmarks of this condition.The priority action for the nurse is to review the child's most recent serum sodium.Daily weights and I&O are also important for many children but is not as specific for this condition as assessing the sodium level.The child may or may not need a sodium restriction,but assessment comes first.

A Child Is Hospitalized After a Serious Motor Vehicle Crash