Author Question: A patient with antidiuretic hormone deficiency is receiving desmopressin (DDAVP). The nurse will ... (Read 34 times)

newbem · **on:** Jul 23, 2018

A patient with antidiuretic hormone deficiency is receiving desmopressin (DDAVP). The nurse will teach this patient to:

a. avoid grapefruit juice.
b. increase sodium intake.
c. monitor blood pressure.
d. reduce fluid intake.

Question 2

A nurse teaches a nursing student about the differences between desmopressin (DDAVP) and vasopressin (Pitressin). Which statement by the student indicates a need for further teaching?

a. Desmopressin has a shorter duration of action than vasopressin.
b. Desmopressin is easier to administer than vasopressin.
c. Vasopressin can be used in cardiac resuscitation.
d. Vasopressin can cause serious adverse cardiovascular effects.

ErinKing · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 23, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: D
Patients taking desmopressin should be taught to reduce fluid intake to avoid fluid overload, because this drug prevents continued fluid loss. Desmopressin metabolism is not affected by grapefruit juice. Increasing the sodium intake would only cause increased fluid retention. Desmopressin is a weak pressor agent and does not adversely affect hemodynamics, so monitoring blood pressure is not necessary.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
Desmopressin has a long duration of action, which is the reason it is preferred for the treatment of diabetes insipidus. It can be administered intranasally, so it is easier to administer than vasopressin. Vasopressin has hemodynamic effects that can be beneficial during cardiac resuscitation but that also can cause serious adverse cardiovascular effects.