Final answer:
In cases of severe dehydration, intravenous fluids, such as normal saline, which is isotonic with body fluids, are administered to rapidly restore hydration. Isotonic solutions are crucial to avoid fluid shifts that could lead to further complications.
Step-by-step explanation:
For a patient with severe dehydration, the restoration of fluids is crucial. Depending on the severity of the dehydration, different treatments may be used. Oral rehydration solution is typically administered for mild to moderate dehydration. This solution contains a mixture of water, salts, and sugar. However, in severe cases, where a patient cannot take fluids orally or when rapid rehydration is needed, intravenous fluids are used.
Intravenous fluids like normal saline are isotonic with body fluids, meaning they have the same salt concentration as cells and blood. This is important because isotonic solutions do not cause shifts of fluids into or out of the cells, which could lead to further complications. In some instances, a combination of isotonic saline and Na lactate or lactated Ringer's solution is used when there's a loss of fluid high in Na and HCO3.
It is essential not to inject hypertonic solutions, including those high in sugar or salt, as they can increase the osmotic pressure in the blood, leading to dehydration. Intravenous rehydration involves carefully prepared and monitored solutions to ensure the patient's health and well-being.