Question

Which of the following describes the appropriate administration of intravenous fluids in a​ newborn?

A. 10 percent dextrose in​ water, 20​ mL/kg, slow IV push
B. 5 percent dextrose in 0.45 percent saline​ solution, 30​ mL/kg
C. Normal​ saline, 10​ mL/kg, slow IV push
D. Normal saline or lactated​ Ringer's solution 40​ mL/kg using a pressure infuser

Answer 1

The best option for administering intravenous fluids to a newborn is normal saline or lactated Ringer's solution at 40 mL/kg using a pressure infuser due to their isotonic nature with body fluids.

Step-by-step explanation:

The appropriate administration of intravenous fluids in a newborn is best described by option D: Normal saline or lactated​ Ringer's solution 40​ mL/kg using a pressure infuser. This choice is suitable because both normal saline and lactated Ringer's solution are isotonic with respect to human body fluids. Isotonic solutions are crucial for maintaining the cellular environment and preventing cell damage from excessive fluid shift. Administering a large volume quickly using a pressure infuser may be necessary in certain emergency or critical situations where rapid fluid resuscitation is needed.