Which IV fluid is the most appropriate for treating acute Diabetes insipidus (DI)?

Choice A reason: Insert indwelling urinary catheter. This task requires clinical judgment, sterile technique, and expertise. It is an invasive procedure that should be performed by a registered nurse or a physician.
Choice B reason: Monitor IV D5 1/2 NS with 20 mEq KCl at 75 m/hr. Monitoring IV fluids and medications involves assessing the patient’s response to treatment, recognizing potential complications, and making clinical decisions. This task requires the expertise of a registered nurse.
Choice C reason: Empty urinary catheter and measure the output. This task can be delegated to a nursing aide as it involves routine measurement and documentation, which does not require clinical judgment. It is a simple procedure that can be safely performed by a trained aide.
Choice D reason: Collect a stool sample for occult blood testing. This is a straightforward task that can be delegated to a nursing aide. It involves collecting and labeling the sample correctly, which does not require advanced clinical skills or judgment.
Choice E reason: Daily weights. This task can be safely delegated to a nursing aide. It involves measuring and recording the patient’s weight, which is a routine procedure and does not require clinical judgment.
Choice F reason: Notify the MD of any signs of bleeding. This task involves assessing the patient for signs of bleeding, which requires clinical judgment and should be performed by a registered nurse. The nurse must determine the significance of the findings and communicate them appropriately to the physician.
Choice G reason: Vital signs every 4 hours. Monitoring vital signs is a routine task that can be delegated to a nursing aide. It involves measuring and recording the patient’s blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, and temperature, which does not require advanced clinical skills.

Choice A reason: Taking a daily multivitamin with iron is important for overall health, but it is not specifically related to preventing sickle cell crises. While maintaining proper nutrition is essential, it does not directly address the triggers or management of sickle cell crises.
Choice B reason: Restricting fluids to 2 liters per day is not appropriate for patients with sickle cell disease. In fact, maintaining adequate hydration is crucial to prevent sickling of red blood cells and reduce the risk of a sickle cell crisis. Restricting fluids could lead to dehydration, which can exacerbate the condition.
Choice C reason: Limiting exposure to crowds is an important instruction for patients with sickle cell disease. Crowded environments can increase the risk of infections, which can trigger a sickle cell crisis. By avoiding crowded places, patients can reduce their exposure to potential infections and help prevent crises.
Choice D reason: While avoiding caffeinated beverages is generally good advice for overall health, it is not specifically related to preventing sickle cell crises. Caffeine can cause dehydration, but the primary focus for preventing crises is maintaining proper hydration and avoiding infections.