In providing care to a patient after a transsphenoidal hypophysectomy, the nurse notes that the patient's serum sodium level is 140 mEq/L (140 mmol/L). Which intravenous fluid prescription does the nurse question?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

0.45% sodium chloride (1/2 NS) is a hypotonic solution, which could potentially lead to hyponatremia or exacerbate any existing issues with sodium balance. The patient's serum sodium level is normal, so using a hypotonic solution may not be appropriate.

In Providing Care to a Patient After a Transsphenoidal Hypophysectomy