A client with head trauma that develops a urine output of 300 ml/hr, dry skin, and dry mucous membranes should have their urine specific gravity evaluated by the nurse. Diabetes insipidus is a result of a urine output of 300 ml/hr.
The nurse cannot anticipate treatment for renal failure because there is no evidence of it. Emollients to prevent skin breakdown are important, but the nurse does not need to worry about performing this immediately. The nurse should not slow the rate of IV fluid when polyuria is present because it would contribute to dehydration.
Urine output of 300 ml/hr may indicate diabetes insipidus. which is a failure of the pituitary to produce the anti-diuretic hormone. This may occur with increased intracranial pressure and head trauma; the nurse evaluates for low urine specific gravity. increased serum osmolarityand dehydration.