When Caring for a Patient Having a Water Deprivation Test

question 14

Multiple Choice

When caring for a patient having a water deprivation test, which finding is most important for the nurse to communicate to the health care provider?

• A) The patient complains of intense thirst.
• B) The patient has a 5-lb (2.3 kg) weight loss.
• C) The patient feels dizzy when sitting up on the edge of the bed.
• D) The patient's urine osmolality does not change after antidiuretic hormone (ADH) is given.

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Definitions:

Urine Osmolality

A measure of the concentration of solutes in urine, which can provide insight into the body's water balance and kidney function.

Urine Volume

The total amount of urine excreted by the kidneys over a specified period, an important indicator of kidney and overall fluid balance.

ADH

Antidiuretic hormone, also known as vasopressin, which helps regulate water balance in the body by increasing the uptake of water in the kidneys.

Natriuretic Hormone

Hormones, such as atrial natriuretic peptide, that help to regulate fluid balance and blood pressure by increasing the excretion of sodium and water from the kidneys.