A nurse is assessing a 5-year-old child who has diabetes insipidus and is receiving desmopressin.
Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as an indication that the medication is effective?

The correct answer is choice C: Initiate continuous cardiac monitoring.

Choice A rationale:

Implementing fluid restrictions is not recommended for a child with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). DKA is characterized by severe dehydration due to osmotic diuresis, and fluid replacement is a critical component of treatment to restore hydration and circulatory volume.

Choice B rationale:

Monitoring vital signs every 8 hours is not sufficient for a child with DKA. DKA is an acute, life-threatening condition that requires close monitoring of vital signs to detect changes in the patient’s condition promptly. Vital signs should be monitored more frequently, typically every 1 to 2 hours, depending on the severity of the DKA and institutional protocols.

Choice C rationale:

Continuous cardiac monitoring is recommended for a child with DKA. DKA can lead to serious electrolyte imbalances, such as hypokalemia, which can cause cardiac arrhythmias. Continuous cardiac monitoring allows for the early detection and treatment of these potential complications.

Choice D rationale:

Administering subcutaneous insulin 30 minutes before meals is not appropriate for the acute management of DKA. In DKA, insulin is typically administered intravenously to rapidly decrease blood glucose levels and correct metabolic acidosis. Subcutaneous insulin is not used until the patient is stable and able to eat.

The correct answers are Choices A, C, D, E, F, and G.

Choice A rationale: Antihypertensive medication is indicated due to sustained elevated BP (≥160/110 mm Hg), which increases risk for stroke, placental abruption, and eclampsia. Prompt control reduces maternal and fetal morbidity.

Choice B rationale: Routine vaginal exams are contraindicated unless signs of labor are present. Frequent exams increase infection risk and are not part of standard care for hypertensive or preeclamptic clients.

Choice C rationale: A low-stimulation environment (dim lights, quiet room) reduces CNS irritability and seizure risk in preeclampsia. It supports neuroprotection and aligns with seizure precaution protocols.

Choice D rationale: Betamethasone promotes fetal lung maturity in preterm gestation when delivery is likely. It reduces neonatal respiratory distress syndrome and improves outcomes in hypertensive pregnancies.

Choice E rationale: A 24-hour urine specimen quantifies proteinuria, essential for diagnosing preeclampsia severity. Protein 3+ on dipstick warrants confirmation via timed collection for accurate staging.

Choice F rationale: Hourly intake and output monitoring detects fluid shifts, renal compromise, and early signs of pulmonary edema. It’s critical in hypertensive disorders to guide fluid management.

Choice G rationale: Bed rest minimizes physical stress, stabilizes BP, and reduces risk of placental disruption. Left lateral positioning enhances uteroplacental perfusion and supports fetal oxygenation.