What possible complication should the nurse recognize in the first 48 hours after removal of a GH-secreting pituitary adenoma when the patient has a rapid drop in GH and IGF-1?
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Correct answer: Negative fluid balance with increased urine output
After acromegaly surgery, removal of GH excess leads to a sudden negative fluid balance; rapid diuresis may occur as fluid retention from GH resolves.
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More Pituitary Disorders: Acromegaly and SIADH/DI questions
- What is a hallmark physical sign of acromegaly?
- In SIADH, what neurological complication related to its main electrolyte disturbance does the nurse monitor for?
- Which therapy is first-line for central diabetes insipidus?
- What lab result would most strongly support the diagnosis of acromegaly in a patient cared for by a nurse?
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- When educating a patient with acromegaly about the condition, what does the nurse emphasize?