Dehydration in Children

Dehydration in Children ( 29 Questions)

A client is admitted to the hospital with cerebral edema.
The nurse is preparing to start an intravenous (IV) infusion.
Which of the following IV fluids is the most appropriate for this client?


Correct Answer: A

Normal saline (0.9% NaCl).

Choice A rationale:

Normal saline (0.9% NaCl) is the most appropriate choice for a client with cerebral edema.

This isotonic solution is commonly used to maintain intravascular volume and provides a neutral effect on fluid balance in the brain.

It does not introduce additional electrolytes that could potentially worsen cerebral edema.

Choice B rationale:

Half normal saline (0.45% NaCl) is not the best choice for cerebral edema because it is hypotonic and may lead to cellular swelling, potentially exacerbating the edema.

Choice C rationale:

Lactated Ringer's, while isotonic, contains additional electrolytes and lactate.

In the case of cerebral edema, it is safer to use a solution with a simpler composition like normal saline to avoid any potential complications related to electrolyte imbalances.

Choice D rationale:

D5W (5% dextrose in water) is not recommended for cerebral edema because it contains dextrose and may not adequately address the underlying issue of increased intracranial pressure associated with cerebral edema.




Join Nursingprepexams Nursing for nursing questions & guides! Sign Up Now