Final answer:
Children with a low sodium intake are most at risk for fluid and electrolyte imbalances, with deficiencies leading to rapid water loss, weight loss, and various health problems. Proper treatment involves isotonic solutions to restore balance effectively.
Step-by-step explanation:
Children most at risk for fluid and electrolyte imbalances are b) Children with a low sodium intake. Sodium plays a crucial role in maintaining proper fluid balance, and deficiencies can lead to hyponatremia, characterized by muscle and testicular atrophy, lung infections, and a deficient osteoid tissue. Additionally, a lack of sodium can cause the body to lose water rapidly, resulting in weight loss and further imbalance.
It is important to note that fluid and electrolyte imbalances can manifest from excessive loss of digestive fluids due to prolonged vomiting and diarrhea, or chronic renal disease that causes acidosis. Various factors can lead to electrolyte imbalances, including high or low potassium levels, abnormal pH balance, and certain medications like calcium channel blockers. Immediate and appropriate treatment is vital to prevent complications associated with electrolyte imbalances.