Diabetes Insipidus

Question 1

What is happening in DI?

Answer 1

The body has inability to regulate water balance
There is a problem (deficiency) with the antidiuretic hormone (ADH)

Question 2

What are the causes of DI?

Answer 2

Central DI: A deficiency of ADH produced by the pituitary gland

Nephrogenic DI: The kidneys are unable to respond to ADH

Gestational DI: can develop during pregnancy

Question 3

What are the S/S of DI?

Answer 3

Excessive dilute urine output
Excessive thirst (polydipsia)
Severe dehydration (tachycardia, hypotension, dry mucus membrane)
Fatigue, muscle weakness
Constipation
Decreased cognition

Question 4

How do the Labs appear?

Answer 4

Urine specific gravity = LOW

Concentrated blood = Hyperosmolality
High BUN, HGB/HCT, CREATININE

Question 5

What is the treatment for DI?

Answer 5

-Administer desmopressin, vasopressin
Concentrated the urine made by the kidneys
Causes less urine output and increase specific gravity of urine (how nurses know tx is effective)