Which of the following is NOT a factor that may decrease fluid needs?

The correct answer indicates that polyuria is not a factor that decreases fluid needs. In fact, polyuria, defined as the production of abnormally large volumes of dilute urine, typically increases fluid requirements. This condition can lead to greater fluid loss, necessitating an increase in fluid intake to prevent dehydration.

In contrast, conditions like edema, renal failure, and the Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuretic Hormone secretion (SIADH) often lead to decreased fluid needs. Edema can indicate fluid retention in the body, suggesting that additional fluid intake could exacerbate this condition. Renal failure reduces the kidneys' ability to excrete fluids, sometimes necessitating fluid restrictions to avoid overload. SIADH results in the excessive retention of water due to elevated levels of antidiuretic hormone, which can lead to dilutional hyponatremia and make additional fluid intake inappropriate.

Understanding these concepts is crucial in gerontological nutrition practice, where managing fluid intake is essential to ensure optimal health outcomes for older adults.