The healthcare provider ordered an IV solution for a dehydrated client with a skull fracture. The nurse knows which IV fluid would be contraindicated?
Normal saline
Dextrose in water 5%
Lactated Ringer's (LR)
Dextrose in normal saline
The Correct Answer is B
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.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Monitoring respiratory status for signs and symptoms of pulmonary complications is a priority nursing intervention for a client with hypervolemia. Hypervolemia is a condition where there is excess fluid in the blood vessels, which can cause fluid to leak into the lungs and impair gas exchange. The nurse should assess the client for signs of pulmonary edema, such as dyspnea, crackles, cough, and pink-tinged sputum.
Choice B reason: Encouraging the client to consume sodium-free fluids is not a priority nursing intervention for a client with hypervolemia. Sodium-free fluids may still contribute to fluid overload, especially if the client has impaired renal function or heart failure. The nurse should limit the client's fluid intake and administer diuretics as prescribed to reduce the fluid volume.
Choice C reason: Weighing dressings with a large-bore catheter is not a priority nursing intervention for a client with hypervolemia. This may be a relevant intervention for a client with hemorrhage, who may lose blood through a large-bore catheter or dressing. The nurse should monitor the client's blood pressure, pulse, and hemoglobin levels for signs of blood loss.
Choice D reason: Drawing a blood sample for typing and cross-matching is not a priority nursing intervention for a client with hypervolemia. This may be a relevant intervention for a client who needs a blood transfusion, which may be indicated for a client with anemia, trauma, or surgery. The nurse should check the client's blood type and compatibility before administering any blood products.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is a correct answer because normal saline 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, and it can help restore the fluid balance and the blood pressure of the dehydrated client.
Choice B reason: This is not a correct answer because 1/2 normal saline 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 lead to cellular swelling and edema. It is not suitable for rapid infusion, as it can cause hemolysis and hypotension.
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. It causes fluid to shift from the extracellular to the intracellular compartment, which can lead to cellular swelling and edema. It is not suitable for rapid infusion, as it can cause hemolysis and hypotension.
Choice D reason: This is not a correct answer because D5 1/2 normal saline is a hypertonic solution, which means it has a higher osmolarity than the blood plasma. It causes fluid to shift from the intracellular to the extracellular compartment, which can lead to cellular shrinkage and dehydration. It is not suitable for rapid infusion, as it can cause hypernatremia and fluid overload.

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