Slow infusion of isotonic fluid into subcutaneous tissue is called:

Appeared in: AIIMS BHOPAL NO- 2018( Shift-2nd)

Explanation

Hypodermoclysis is the specific medical term for the administration of fluids into the subcutaneous space.
The prefix 'hypo-' means under, 'dermo-' refers to the skin, and '-clysis' means the infusion of fluid, directly translating to infusion under the skin.
This method is used for rehydration with isotonic solutions like normal saline, particularly in patients with poor venous access.
It is a less invasive alternative to intravenous (IV) therapy for mild to moderate dehydration.

Option A: Dialysis is a procedure for removing waste and excess fluid from the blood, essentially replacing the function of failed kidneys.
Option C: Plasmapheresis is a therapeutic procedure that involves separating plasma from blood cells to remove harmful substances, such as antibodies.
Option D: Enteroclysis involves the infusion of contrast material or fluid directly into the small intestine for diagnostic imaging.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Medical Terminology for Fluid Administration as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Hypodermoclysis is a vital skill in geriatric and palliative nursing, as it provides a comfortable and effective hydration method for patients with fragile veins or who find IV lines distressing.
Nurses must carefully monitor the infusion site for complications like edema, cellulitis, or hematoma, and ensure the flow rate does not exceed the tissue's absorption capacity.
What if the patient had severe dehydration with hypotension? In that case, hypodermoclysis would be inappropriate. The patient would require rapid fluid resuscitation via an intravenous (IV) line to quickly restore circulatory volume.

How to Approach the Question

First, analyze the question stem to identify the key components: 'slow infusion', 'isotonic fluid', and 'subcutaneous tissue'.
The core of the question is identifying the medical term for infusion into the subcutaneous tissue.
Break down the medical terms in the options. 'Hypo-' means under, and 'dermo-' relates to skin. 'Hypodermoclysis' therefore means infusion under the skin.
Evaluate the other options. 'Dialysis' relates to kidney function. 'Plasmapheresis' relates to blood plasma. 'Entero-' relates to the intestines.
By matching the definition in the stem ('subcutaneous tissue') with the etymology of the options, 'Hypodermoclysis' is the logical choice.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Medicine Harrison 22e Part 2 p. 304-306

E6 Medicine Davidson Principles Practice 24e p. 444-446

Practise the full AIIMS BHOPAL NO- 2018( Shift-2nd)

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.