Question

The client is admitted with isotonic dehydration. The nurse would anticipate an order for which IV fluid? A. \(5 \%\) dextrose and water B. \(3 \%\) sodium chloride C. \(.9 \%\) sodium chloride D. \(.45 \%\) sodium chloride

Short answer

Answer: The best IV fluid for treating a patient with isotonic dehydration is 0.9% sodium chloride.

Step-by-step solution

Analyze each IV fluid option

We need to check each option and see if it will help replenish the water and sodium lost without disrupting the balance. A. \(5\%\) dextrose and water: This fluid consists of sugar (dextrose) and water, which helps increase blood sugar levels, but does not help in replenishing sodium. B. \(3\%\) sodium chloride: This fluid is highly concentrated and hypertonic, meaning that it has a higher concentration of sodium than the body fluids. This could create an imbalance and may not be suitable for isotonic dehydration. C. \(.9\%\) sodium chloride: This fluid is isotonic, with a concentration of about 154 mEq/L, which mimics the body's normal extracellular fluid (ECF) concentration. This fluid would be effective in maintaining the sodium and water balance in the body. D. \(.45\%\) sodium chloride: This fluid is hypotonic, which means it has a low sodium concentration and can lead to dilution of the serum sodium levels in the body, creating an imbalance.

Select the best IV fluid

Based on the analysis, the best IV fluid for the treatment of isotonic dehydration is option C: \(.9\%\) sodium chloride. This fluid has the appropriate sodium and water composition to maintain the balance in the patient's body, and as a result, help to treat the condition effectively.