When caring for a patient with syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH), the nurse anticipates which electrolyte abnormality characteristic of this disease?
Explanation
• SIADH is the inappropriate secretion of antidiuretic hormorne (ADH) despite normal or increased plasma volume that results in hyponatremia and hypo-osmolality. These actions result in impaired water excretion.
• The decrease in sodium is due to hemodilution, not due to a sodium deficiency.
• Potassium and calcium concentrations generally remain within normal limits.