Final answer:
The nurse should educate the patient that during the diuretic phase of acute kidney injury, urine output is increased, which could lead to decreased fluid volume. The electrolyte imbalance may persist, and the kidneys may not be fully functional yet. Careful monitoring of fluid and electrolytes is vital during this period.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nurse should provide education to the patient in the diuretic phase of acute kidney injury regarding several aspects:
- A. Urine output is increased. This indicates that the body is trying to eliminate excess fluid, which may have accumulated during the earlier phases of acute kidney injury.
- B. The kidney has become fully functional. The diuretic phase does not necessarily mean the kidneys are fully functional again, monitoring and further tests are required to determine this.
- C. The electrolyte imbalance will be normalized. There may still be an imbalance as the body adjusts, so careful monitoring of electrolytes is essential during this phase.
- D. This phase will last no more than three weeks. The duration of the diuretic phase can vary and is not strictly limited to three weeks.
- E. There is a possibility that the fluid volume will be reduced in the body. As excessive urine is produced, there's a risk of dehydration and a drop in fluid volume.
Patient education should include the importance of monitoring fluid intake and output, watching for signs of dehydration, and understanding that while urine output increases, this does not immediately equate to full recovery of kidney function. Additionally, patients should be aware that the balance of electrolytes such as sodium (Na+) and potassium (K+) may still be off, and that adjustments to diet or medication may be necessary.