ED approach to hypotonic hyponatremia ...

If super low and super symptomatic, give hypertonic saline.

If not super low and not super symptomatic, assess volume status (history, vitals, orthostatics, JVP, skin turgor, mucous membranes, peripheral edema, BUN, Cr) and

  • if hypovolemic (thiazides, mineralcorticoid deficiency, diarrhea, vomiting) initiate mild IV hydration w/ NS to decrease ADH production OR

  • if euvolemic (SIADH, polydipsia)) or hypervolemic (CHF, end stage kidney failure, cirrhosis), initiate free water/fluid restriction

This empiric approach will generally get patients headed in the right direction until evaled by the internists and/or nephrologists. For those that are more ambitious feel free to send off urine 'lytes and osmoles.

Source

Sabatine, Marc MD. Pocket Medicine: The Massachusetts General Hospital Handbook of Internal Medicine. 3rd ed. 2008.