NURS-14. DEVELOPMENT OF A CLINICAL PRACTICE INTERVENTION TO SUPPORT NURSES CARING FOR PATIENTS WITH DIABETES INSIPIDUS (DI) DURING CHEMOTHERAPY HYDRATION

Abstract

Abstract BACKGROUND Pediatric neuro-oncology patients with germ cell tumors (GCT) and diabetes insipidus (DI) often require management with vasopressin (DDAVP). Fluid and sodium balance, ordinarily managed successfully with DDAVP, can be disrupted during chemotherapy and associated hydration. Patients with an intact thirst mechanism may be able to self-regulate fluid and salt balance under the right conditions, whereas patients without an intact thirst may experience sodium fluctuations if intravenous hydration exceeds the amount they drink independently. Patients may be unable to maintain adequate hydration and sodium levels due to nausea and/or sedating antiemetics. These factors create a unique clinical challenge for nurses. Nurses sought guidance in understanding DI and its impact on hydration during chemotherapy. METHODS Two nursing education sessions were held and focused on DI management. Nurses were surveyed pre and post education. The goals of the intervention were that the oncology nurse will be to describe the pathophysiology of diabetes insipidus, the role of desmopressin, the ability to differentiate between management of patients with and without an intact thirst mechanism, and the special care of a DI patient receiving chemotherapy. RESULTS Nurses reported an increased awareness post education of the need to closely assess patients and manage their DI in collaboration with clinicians. Routine chemotherapy management does not apply to this population, because drastic fluctuations in sodium and water balance put them at risk of other complications. Nurses identified the need to closely manage hydration, DDAVP, recording strict intake/output, monitoring sodium levels, assessing for nausea/vomiting and the degree of sedation from antiemetics. CONCLUSION Outcomes from this educational intervention were that nurses had an increased understanding of DI management in patients with GCT receiving chemotherapy. Future goals would be to implement a standard approach to hydration, DDAVP administration, and monitoring sodium levels in patients with GCT and DI.