Fluids and Electrolytes
Which intravenous (IV) solution is expected for a patient with cerebral edema? Normal saline ½ normal saline D5 normal saline 3% saline
3% saline Rationale:Hypertonic solutions such as 3% saline pull water from in the cell into the extracellular fluid. These are useful in cases of severe hyponatremia and severe edema, specifically cerebral edema.
A patient is ordered potassium replacement for a potassium level of 3.2 mEq/dL. What is the best way to administer this medication? Crushed and added to applesauce Whole pill by mouth Intravenous push Subcutaneous
Whole pill by mouth Rationale:Potassium can be given whole by mouth or via intravenous infusion. It should never be pushed or crushed, and it is not available subcutaneously.
A patient has a sodium level of 124 mEq/dL. Which assessment finding is expected? Cardiac arrythmias Pressured speech Confusion Petechiae
Confusion Rationale:When the sodium level is outside of normal limits, look for neurologic side effects, such as lethargy, confusion, dizziness, or seizures. Cardiac arrhythmias, pressured speech, and petechiae would not be expected.
What is the difference between crystalloids and colloids? Crystalloids are thicker and more viscous, and colloids are clear fluids. Crystalloids are used to correct sodium levels, and colloids are used to correct potassium levels. Crystalloids are clear fluids, and colloids are thicker and more viscous. Crystalloids are used to correct potassium levels, and colloids are used to correct sodium levels.
Crystalloids are clear fluids, and colloids are thicker and more viscous. Rationale: Crystalloids are crystal clear intravenous fluids while colloids are more viscous, such as albumin and blood products. Neither product completely addresses electrolyte abnormalities or adds electrolytes to the blood.
Upon assessment, a patient has Trousseau and Chvostek signs. Which electrolyte abnormality does this indicate? Hypocalcemia Hypercalcemia Hyperkalemia Hypokalemia
Hypocalcemia Rationale:Trousseau and Chvostek signs indicate low calcium, or hypocalcemia. They are not associated with hypercalcemia or with an imbalance of potassium.
