The nurse in the neurosurgical unit is caring for a 50-year-old male client.
1000:Day 3 after a head injury. The primary health care provider suspects either syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH) or diabetes insipidus and has ordered serum sodium, urine specific gravity and strict intake and output. Results are pending. The nurse reviews the findings that distinguish the two conditions.
For each finding, click to specify whether the finding is consistent with SIADH or diabetes insipidus.
| Possible Findings | SIADH | Diabetes Insipidus |
|---|---|---|
| Dry mouth | ||
| Intense thirst | ||
| Low serum sodium | ||
| High urine specific gravity | ||
| Water excess without dehydration | ||
| Very large volumes of dilute urine |
Note: Each row must have 1 response option selected.