Final answer:
In the case of hypertonic solutions, it is critical to monitor for fluid volume deficiency and regularly check blood pressure, heart rate, and urine output, particularly when high sodium solutions like 3% or 5% NS are used.
Step-by-step explanation:
With hypertonic solutions, watch for fluid volume deficiency. In an ICU setting, frequent monitoring of blood pressure, heart rate, and urine output is crucial, especially if the patient is receiving a solution with high sodium content, such as 3% NS (Normal Saline) or 5% NS. This vigilant monitoring is necessary to manage the risks associated with hypertonic solutions, which can lead to dehydration, as they cause a net loss of body water producing dehydration due to the flow of fluid from the tissues into the blood. Hypertonic solutions increase the osmotic pressure of the blood and have a higher osmolarity compared to the cells, resulting in water leaving the cells to dilute the extracellular fluid.