Question

You are administering intravenous crystalloid solutions to 26-year-old Marco Ramirez, who suffered severe heat exhaustion at an outdoor concert. Mr. Ramirez asks, "What is this stuff you're giving me?" What is the best response for you to give to Mr. Ramirez?

1) I'm giving you a solution that is a lot like the fluid outside your cells. It will replace the fluid you lost.
2) I'm giving you a solution that has proteins in it. It will help replace the fluid you lost.
3) I'm giving you a solution with a drug that will keep you from losing‚ water.
4) I'm giving you a solution that is a lot like your blood. It will replace the fluid you lost.

Answer 1

Mr. Ramirez is being given an isotonic saline solution to replenish fluids and electrolytes lost due to severe heat exhaustion.

Step-by-step explanation:

The solution being administered to you, Mr. Ramirez, is an isotonic saline solution, which is a lot like the fluid outside your cells. Its primary function is to replace the fluids and electrolytes that your body has lost due to severe heat exhaustion. There aren't any proteins like those found in blood or medications to prevent water loss; it is simply a balanced mix of water and salts, most notably sodium chloride (NaCl), that helps to restore your body's fluid balance.