A client presents in an emergency department and is diagnosed with fluid volume deficit. A nurse begins I.V. therapy per a physician's order to replace the client's lost fluids. Which hypotonic I.V. solution should the nurse anticipate being ordered for this client?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Hypotonic solutions have a lower concentration of solutes than the body's fluids, so they can cause fluid to shift into the cells and potentially cause cellular swelling. 0.45% sodium chloride is a commonly used hypotonic solution for fluid replacement because it provides free water to the cells without causing excessive fluid shifts. Options B, C, and D are not hypotonic solutions and may not be appropriate for fluid replacement in a client with fluid volume deficit.

A Client Presents in an Emergency Department and Is Diagnosed