Question

Hypertonic fluids (name them and what they are used for)

a) 3% NaCl - used for severe hyponatremia and cerebral edema
b) Dextrose 10% in Water (D10W) - used for hypoglycemia and temporary increase in osmolarity
c) 5% NaCl - used for conditions requiring sodium and chloride replacement
d) All of the above

Answer 1

The correct response to the question on hypertonic fluids is 'd) All of the above,' encompassing 3% NaCl for severe hyponatremia and cerebral edema, D10W for hypoglycemia, and 5% NaCl for sodium and chloride replacement.

Step-by-step explanation:

Hypertonic fluids are used medically to manage various conditions by altering the osmolarity of the patient's blood and tissues. The correct answer for the student's question is 'd) All of the above,' as hypertonic fluids include:

1. 3% NaCl – used for severe hyponatremia and cerebral edema.
2. Dextrose 10% in Water (D10W) – used for hypoglycemia and to temporarily increase blood osmolarity.
3. 5% NaCl – used for conditions requiring sodium and chloride replacement.

Explanation:

• When 3% NaCl is administered, its high concentration of sodium chloride compared to the body's cells draws water out of the cells, helping to reduce cellular swelling such as in cerebral edema.
• Dextrose 10% in Water (D10W) serves as a source of glucose for energy and affects osmolarity in the blood, useful for treating hypoglycemia.
• 5% NaCl, due to its high concentration of salts, is utilized when there is a significant deficiency of sodium and chloride ions in the body.