Initial Review Master IV Fluid Solutions Flashcards
What memory aid helps remember hypertonic solutions?
Hyper can be associated with being hyperactive and skinny.
What is important to monitor during IV fluid administration?
How the patient is responding to the fluid given and the rate of administration.
What is the main focus of understanding IV solutions?
It’s all about osmosis.
What is osmosis?
The process of water moving across a semipermeable membrane along a concentration gradient.
What happens in osmosis with water concentration?
Water moves from areas of high concentration to areas of low concentration.
What are the three categories of IV fluid solutions?
Hypertonic, isotonic, and hypotonic.
What does ‘hypertonic’ mean?
It has more stuff dissolved in it than blood plasma.
What does ‘hypotonic’ mean?
It has less stuff dissolved in it than blood plasma.
What does ‘isotonic’ mean?
It has about the same concentration as blood plasma.
What is the goal of giving isotonic solutions?
To put fluid into the bloodstream and have it stay there.
What are two common isotonic solutions?
Normal saline (NS) and lactated ringers (LR).
What does LR contain that NS does not?
LR contains electrolytes like potassium and magnesium.
When is LR commonly used?
When a patient has lost whole blood.
What is the general fluid replacement for surgical trauma patients?
Lactated Ringer’s (LR)
What fluid is typically given to dehydrated patients?
Normal saline (NS)
What does hypotonic mean in terms of solution concentration?
Less stuff dissolved, more dilute than blood plasma.
What happens to cells when hypotonic solutions are administered?
Cells swell as water shifts into them.
Why would hypotonic solutions be beneficial for some patients?
They help restore hydration in cells that are dehydrated.
What are classic conditions that may require hypotonic solutions?
DKA and HHNS.
What is the concentration of half normal saline?
0.45 percent.
What is the effect of hypertonic solutions on cells?
Cells shrink as water moves out into the bloodstream.
What condition is commonly treated with hypertonic saline?
Cerebral edema.
What is the concentration of hypertonic saline used for treatment?
3% saline.
What is the goal of administering hypertonic solutions?
Restore balance and homeostasis, not to intentionally shrink cells.
What is the goal of IV fluid administration?
To restore balance and homeostasis in the patient.
What can happen if you overshoot fluid administration?
You can overcompensate, causing cells to over swell or over shrink.
What should you do if a provider orders hypotonic fluid for a patient with cerebral edema?
Discuss your concerns with the provider about the potential for cell swelling.
What is crucial to understand when administering IV fluids?
The principles of osmosis and the effects on the patient’s cells.
