A nurse is providing discharge education to a client who has a double-lumen peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC). The client will be receiving IV antibiotics at home with a caregiver’s assistance. Which statement by the caregiver indicates learning has been effective?

Choice A reason:
Dextrose 2.5% in water is a hypotonic solution once the dextrose is metabolized. Hypotonic fluids cause water to shift into cells, which can lead to cellular swelling. This fluid is not isotonic and is therefore incorrect.

Choice B reason:
0.45% sodium chloride, also known as half-normal saline, is a hypotonic solution. It provides free water and promotes fluid movement into cells, making it inappropriate to classify as isotonic.

Choice C reason:
0.9% sodium chloride, also called normal saline, has an osmolality similar to that of plasma. It does not cause significant fluid shifts between compartments and is classified as an isotonic solution. It is commonly used for fluid resuscitation and maintenance of intravascular volume.

Choice D reason:
Dextrose 10% in water is a hypertonic solution. It draws water out of cells into the intravascular space and increases serum osmolality. Because of this effect, it is not isotonic and is an incorrect choice.

Choice A reason:
Clostridium difficile infection commonly causes severe diarrhea, which can lead to excessive loss of fluids and electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, and bicarbonate. This fluid and electrolyte loss significantly increases the risk of dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, making it the most likely cause.

Choice B reason:
Parkinson's disease is a neurological disorder that affects movement and motor control. While it may indirectly impact nutrition or hydration in advanced stages, it is not a direct or common cause of acute electrolyte imbalance associated with dehydration.

Choice C reason:
Asthma primarily affects the respiratory system and does not typically cause significant fluid or electrolyte losses. Unless complicated by other factors, asthma alone is unlikely to result in dehydration-related electrolyte imbalance.

Choice D reason:
Hypertension is a chronic cardiovascular condition characterized by elevated blood pressure. By itself, it does not directly cause dehydration or electrolyte imbalance unless influenced by factors such as diuretic use, which are not specified in the question.