A nurse is to administer a hypotonic solution to a patient with a critically high sodium. Which solution is hypotonic?
0.9% Sodium Chloride
Lactated Ringer's
D5W (5% Dextrose in Water)
0.45% Sodium Chloride
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: This is not a correct answer because 0.9% Sodium Chloride is an isotonic solution, which means it has the same osmolarity as the blood plasma. It does not cause any fluid shifts between the intracellular and extracellular compartments.
Choice B reason: This is not a correct answer because Lactated Ringer's is an isotonic solution, which means it has the same osmolarity as the blood plasma. It does not cause any fluid shifts between the intracellular and extracellular compartments.
Choice C reason: This is not a correct answer because D5W (5% Dextrose in Water) is an isotonic solution when it is in the IV bag, but it becomes hypotonic once it enters the body, as the dextrose is rapidly metabolized and only water remains. However, it is not a preferred solution for a patient with critically high sodium, as it can cause cerebral edema and worsen the neurological status.
Choice D reason: This is a correct answer because 0.45% Sodium Chloride is a hypotonic solution, which means it has a lower osmolarity than the blood plasma. It causes fluid to shift from the extracellular to the intracellular compartment, which can help lower the sodium level and correct the fluid imbalance.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Pale yellow is the normal color of urine, indicating adequate hydration and no bilirubin in the urine. Bilirubin is a pigment that is produced when red blood cells are broken down. It is normally excreted in the bile, but if the bile duct is obstructed, it can accumulate in the blood and urine, causing jaundice and dark urine.
Choice B reason: Red urine can indicate blood in the urine, which can be caused by various conditions such as urinary tract infection, kidney stones, trauma, or cancer. It is not related to bile duct obstruction or cholecystitis.
Choice C reason: Greenish-brown urine can indicate bilirubin in the urine, which can be caused by bile duct obstruction or liver disease. It is a sign of cholestasis, which is a reduced or stopped flow of bile. The nurse should monitor the client for other signs of cholestasis such as jaundice, clay-colored stools, pruritus, and abdominal pain.
Choice D reason: Dark and concentrated urine can indicate dehydration, which can be caused by various factors such as fluid loss, fever, vomiting, or diarrhea. It is not related to bile duct obstruction or cholecystitis.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Normal saline is not contraindicated for a dehydrated client with a skull fracture. Normal saline is an isotonic solution that has the same concentration of solutes as the blood plasma. It can help restore fluid balance and prevent cerebral edema.
Choice B reason: Dextrose in water 5% is contraindicated for a dehydrated client with a skull fracture. Dextrose in water 5% is a hypotonic solution that has a lower concentration of solutes than the blood plasma. It can cause fluid to shift from the blood vessels into the brain cells, increasing the intracranial pressure and worsening the skull fracture.
Choice C reason: Lactated Ringer's (LR) is not contraindicated for a dehydrated client with a skull fracture. Lactated Ringer's (LR) is an isotonic solution that has the same concentration of solutes as the blood plasma. It can also provide electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, calcium, and lactate, which can help correct acid-base imbalances.
Choice D reason: Dextrose in normal saline is not contraindicated for a dehydrated client with a skull fracture. Dextrose in normal saline is a hypertonic solution that has a higher concentration of solutes than the blood plasma. It can cause fluid to shift from the brain cells into the blood vessels, reducing the intracranial pressure and cerebral edema.

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