Fluid and electrolyte balance is maintained through the process of fluid and solutes moving in and out of cells. What specific process allows fluid to pass through a membrane from a dilute to a more concentrated area?

Choice A reason: Securing the drain to the client's bed sheet is not the best action for the nurse to take. This could cause the drain to be pulled or dislodged if the client moves or changes position. The nurse should secure the drain to the client's gown or abdominal binder, using a safety pin or a clip.

Choice B reason: Removing the JP drain when the drainage has ceased, covering the opening with sterile gauze, is not the correct action for the nurse to take. The nurse should not remove the drain without a physician's order, as this could cause complications such as infection, bleeding, or bile leakage. The nurse should monitor the amount and color of the drainage, and report any changes to the physician.

Choice C reason: Expelling the air from the JP bulb after emptying to re-establish suction is the correct action for the nurse to take. The JP drain works by creating a negative pressure that draws fluid from the surgical site. The nurse should empty the bulb when it is half full, and squeeze it until it collapses before closing the plug. This ensures that the suction is maintained and prevents the fluid from flowing back into the drain.

Choice D reason: Measuring the drainage every hour for the first 8 hr postoperative is not the correct action for the nurse to take. This is too frequent and unnecessary, as the drainage is expected to decrease over time. The nurse should measure the drainage every 8 to 12 hr, or as ordered by the physician, and record the volume and color. The nurse should also report any signs of infection, such as fever, pain, or foul odor.

Choice A reason: This is not a correct answer because 0.9% Sodium Chloride is an isotonic solution, which means it has the same osmolarity as the blood plasma. It does not cause any fluid shifts between the intracellular and extracellular compartments.

Choice B reason: This is not a correct answer because Lactated Ringer's is an isotonic solution, which means it has the same osmolarity as the blood plasma. It does not cause any fluid shifts between the intracellular and extracellular compartments.

Choice C reason: This is not a correct answer because D5W (5% Dextrose in Water) is an isotonic solution when it is in the IV bag, but it becomes hypotonic once it enters the body, as the dextrose is rapidly metabolized and only water remains. However, it is not a preferred solution for a patient with critically high sodium, as it can cause cerebral edema and worsen the neurological status.

Choice D reason: This is a correct answer because 0.45% Sodium Chloride is a hypotonic solution, which means it has a lower osmolarity than the blood plasma. It causes fluid to shift from the extracellular to the intracellular compartment, which can help lower the sodium level and correct the fluid imbalance.