The nurse is caring for a 2-year-old who is lethargic and irritable after brain tumor surgery. She is noted to have dry mucous membranes and high urinary output. She has had 2 generalized seizures in the past hour. Which of the following is likely causing these symptoms?

A. Diabetes Insipidus is associated with reduced ADH levels, leading to excessive urination and dehydration, not hyponatremia.

B. Acromegaly results from excessive growth hormone (not ADH) secretion, causing abnormal growth of tissues and bones.

C. Addison's disease involves the adrenal glands and the insufficient production of cortisol and aldosterone, not ADH-related hyponatremia.

D. Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuretic Hormone (SIADH).

SIADH is a disorder characterized by the excessive release of antidiuretic hormone (ADH) from the posterior pituitary gland, leading to increased water reabsorption by the kidneys. This results in diluted blood and hyponatremia (low sodium levels) due to the retention of water. Patients with SIADH often experience fluid overload and related symptoms.

A. Obtaining a throat culture and B. visualizing the epiglottis with a tongue depressor are not safe actions for the nurse to perform without appropriate medical equipment and expertise. These actions can trigger a sudden airway obstruction in a child with epiglottitis. The priority is to ensure airway patency and seek immediate medical assistance.

C. Place the child in an upright position.

Suspected epiglottitis is a medical emergency that can result in rapid airway obstruction. Placing the child in an upright position helps improve airflow by allowing the throat to open and reduces the risk of complete airway obstruction. It's important not to perform invasive procedures (such as throat culture or visualization of the epiglottis) without proper medical equipment and expertise, as these actions can lead to worsening airway obstruction.

D. Transporting the child to radiology for a throat x-ray is not appropriate in this situation, as it may delay necessary interventions to secure the airway.