Why would a nurse advise a patient taking a diuretic to drink 8 to 10 glasses of water daily?

Advising a patient taking a diuretic to drink 8 to 10 glasses of water daily helps to avoid rebound edema primarily due to the loss of fluid and electrolytes that can occur with diuretic use. Diuretics promote the excretion of water and sodium, which can potentially lead to dehydration if fluid intake is inadequate. When a patient becomes dehydrated, their body may respond by retaining fluids once diuretic therapy is paused or reduced, leading to rebound edema, which is a sudden accumulation of fluid in the tissues.

By ensuring adequate hydration, the nurse helps to maintain the body's fluid balance, prevent excessive fluid loss, and minimize the risk of rebound edema. Additionally, staying well-hydrated can support kidney function and assist in the effective elimination of excess fluid, which is the intended therapeutic effect of diuretics. Moreover, maintaining good hydration levels may also help mitigate other potential side effects associated with diuretics, such as dizziness and orthostatic hypotension.