Question

A patient develops syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH) following a craniotomy with brain tumor removal. What medical management should the nurse expect?

a) Administering hypertonic saline solution
b) Restricting fluid intake
c) Administering diuretics
d) Increasing sodium-rich foods in the diet

Answer 1

For a patient with SIADH post craniotomy, the nurse should expect a management plan including restricting fluid intake, and potentially administering hypertonic saline or diuretics. Increasing sodium intake is not a standalone option.

Step-by-step explanation:

A patient with the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH) following a craniotomy with brain tumor removal should expect certain medical management strategies. In SIADH, the body secretes too much antidiuretic hormone (ADH), leading to water retention and dilutional hyponatremia. Fluid intake restriction is the most common initial treatment approach to reduce water retention. In some cases, administration of hypertonic saline solution may be necessary to correct severe hyponatremia. Additionally, diuretics could be prescribed to increase water excretion when necessary. Increasing sodium-rich foods in the diet alone is not an adequate treatment and must be approached cautiously, as it doesn't address the underlying issue of water retention.