Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 88%
Simulated
A nurse is caring for a client who has hypernatremia and requires IV fluid therapy. Which solution should the nurse prepare to infuse for this client?
Correct answer
D
Rationale
Correct Answer: D - Hypotonic solution
Rationale:
1. Hypernatremia means high sodium levels in the blood, indicating dehydration.
2. Hypotonic solutions have lower solute concentration than blood, making water move into cells to rehydrate.
3. Isotonic solution (choice A) is balanced in solute concentration, not ideal for rehydration.
4. TPN (choice B) is a complex solution for long-term nutrition, not for immediate hydration.
5. Hypertonic solution (choice C) has higher solute concentration, worsening dehydration.
Summary:
Choice D is correct as it helps rehydrate cells in hypernatremia. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect due to their solute concentrations not addressing dehydration effectively.
Rationale:
1. Hypernatremia means high sodium levels in the blood, indicating dehydration.
2. Hypotonic solutions have lower solute concentration than blood, making water move into cells to rehydrate.
3. Isotonic solution (choice A) is balanced in solute concentration, not ideal for rehydration.
4. TPN (choice B) is a complex solution for long-term nutrition, not for immediate hydration.
5. Hypertonic solution (choice C) has higher solute concentration, worsening dehydration.
Summary:
Choice D is correct as it helps rehydrate cells in hypernatremia. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect due to their solute concentrations not addressing dehydration effectively.