After her bath, a 62-year-old patient asks the nurse for a perineal pad saying that she uses them because sometimes she leaks urine when she laughs or coughs. Which intervention is most appropriate to include in the care plan for the patient?

The correct answer is c. I will eat foods high in potassium because the diuretics cause potassium loss.

Rationale for Choice A:

• Statement:"I should weigh myself daily and report any sudden weight loss or gain."
• Rationale:This statement is correct.It's crucial for patients with SIADH to monitor their weight daily as even slight fluctuations can signal fluid imbalances.Sudden weight gain can indicate fluid retention,while sudden weight loss might suggest dehydration.Both scenarios warrant medical attention.

Rationale for Choice B:

• Statement:"I need to limit my fluid intake to no more than 1 quart of liquids a day."
• Rationale:This statement is also correct.Fluid restriction is a cornerstone of SIADH management.By limiting fluid intake,patients can help prevent the buildup of excess fluid in the body,which can lead to complications such as hyponatremia (low sodium levels in the blood) and edema.

Rationale for Choice C:

• Statement:"I will eat foods high in potassium because the diuretics cause potassium loss."
• Rationale:This statement is incorrect.While some diuretics used in the treatment of SIADH can indeed cause potassium loss,this is not a universal side effect.Furthermore,increasing potassium intake without medical supervision can be dangerous,potentially leading to hyperkalemia (high potassium levels in the blood).It's essential for patients to consult with their healthcare providers for individualized guidance on potassium intake.

Rationale for Choice D:

• Statement:"I need to shop for foods that are low in sodium and avoid adding salt to foods."
• Rationale:This statement is correct.A low-sodium diet is often recommended for patients with SIADH to help manage fluid balance and prevent hyponatremia.Restricting sodium intake can reduce fluid retention and help maintain appropriate sodium levels in the blood.

Before administering any medication, the nurse should confirm the potassium level to ensure that it is still elevated and needs to be treated. Potassium levels can fluctuate, so repeating the test will ensure that the client receives the appropriate treatment.

Options (a) Withhold the medication and (b) Administering a hypertonic solution may be appropriate interventions depending on the client's condition, but confirming the potassium level is the first step.

Option (d) Monitoring for paresthesia is important but not the first action that the nurse should take.