Question

A nurse is providing teaching to a client who has a new diagnosis of diabetes insipidus. Which of the following statements by the client requires further teaching?

A.) "I can drink up to 2 quarts of fluid a day."
B.) "I should expect to urinate frequently at night."
C.) "I may experience headaches."
D.) "I may experience dry mouth."

Answer 1

The correct answer is A, as individuals with diabetes insipidus usually need to drink more than 2 quarts of fluid a day due to excessive urine production and thirst (polyuria and polydipsia).

Step-by-step explanation:

The client with diabetes insipidus who states, "I can drink up to 2 quarts of fluid a day," requires further teaching. Diabetes insipidus is characterized by polyuria (excessive urine production), and as a result, patients need to consume large amounts of fluid to prevent dehydration. Due to the chronic underproduction of ADH, or a mutation in the ADH receptor, not enough water is retained by the kidneys, resulting in increased urine frequency and volume. Patients often exhibit polydipsia (excessive thirst), drinking more to compensate for the fluid loss. Therefore, the correct fluid intake for an individual with diabetes insipidus typically exceeds 2 quarts per day and is adjusted based on the severity of the condition and the individual's level of dehydration. Statements B, C, and D correctly reflect the symptoms of frequent nocturnal urination, headaches, and dry mouth associated with diabetes insipidus.