A nurse is preparing to administer Normal Saline (0.9% NaCl) to a client who has been diagnosed with hyponatremia.
The nurse understands that this type of intravenous fluid contains Sodium 154 mEq/L and Chloride 154 mEq/L.
It is often used in cases of hyponatremia, shock, maintenance fluids, and dehydration.
However, it should not be used in cases of hypernatremia, fluid overload, heart failure, edema, heart disease, cardiac decompensation, primary or secondary aldosteronism.
What should the nurse say to the client to explain why they are receiving this particular IV fluid?

Choice A rationale:

Lactated Ringer's solution is not contraindicated in cases of hyperkalemia.

This solution contains potassium in a relatively low concentration of 4 mEq/L, which is unlikely to significantly impact hyperkalemia.

Choice B rationale:

Lactated Ringer's solution can be contraindicated in cases of hypokalemia.

While it does contain potassium, the concentration is relatively low at 4 mEq/L.

In cases of severe hypokalemia, a more potassium-rich solution might be preferred.

Choice C rationale:

Lactated Ringer's solution can be used in cases of lower GI fluid loss.

It can help replace lost fluids and electrolytes effectively.

Choice D rationale:

Lactated Ringer's solution can be used in cases of upper GI fluid loss.

It helps restore lost fluids and electrolytes.

Choice E rationale:

Lactated Ringer's solution is not contraindicated in cases of lactic acidosis.

In fact, it contains lactate (28 mEq/L), which can be metabolized to bicarbonate and help correct acidosis.

“Severe dehydration, which is ≥10% loss of body weight.”.

Choice A rationale:

Mild dehydration is typically classified as a 3-5% loss of body weight.

The signs and symptoms described in the scenario, such as dry mucous membranes, decreased urine output, and decreased skin turgor, are indicative of more severe dehydration than a 3-5% loss.

Choice B rationale:

Moderate dehydration is generally considered to be a 6-9% loss of body weight.

However, the signs and symptoms presented in the scenario suggest a more severe state of dehydration.

Choice C rationale:

Severe dehydration is classified as a loss of ≥10% of body weight.

The signs and symptoms observed by the nurse, including dry mucous membranes, decreased urine output, and decreased skin turgor, are consistent with severe dehydration, making choice C The correct classification.

Choice D rationale:

No dehydration is defined as less than a 3% loss of body weight.

The clinical manifestations observed in the child, as described in the scenario, clearly indicate dehydration.

In this case, the child's signs and symptoms align with the classification of severe dehydration, which is characterized by a loss of ≥10% of body weight.

These symptoms include dry mucous membranes, decreased urine output, and decreased skin turgor.

It's crucial to recognize the severity of dehydration accurately to initiate the appropriate treatment and prevent complications.