NORCET 3 - 2022 (Shif…: What is the concentration of sodium in crystalloid solution?

NORCET 3 - 2022 (Shift-1)

Applied Physiology

Easy

Appeared in: NORCET 3 - 2022 (Shift-1)

Explanation

The correct option corresponds to the sodium concentration in 0.9% Normal Saline (NS), which is 154 mEq/L.
9% NS is one of the most frequently used isotonic crystalloid solutions for intravenous fluid therapy.
It is primarily used to expand the extracellular fluid (ECF) volume and is a first-line choice for fluid resuscitation in many hypotensive states.
The question asks for 'the' concentration in a crystalloid solution, and while multiple crystalloids exist, 154 mEq/L for NS is a standard reference value provided as an option.

Option B: A sodium concentration of 110 mEq/L does not correspond to any standard, commonly used crystalloid IV solution.
Option C: While 130 mEq/L is a valid sodium concentration for a crystalloid solution, it is specific to Lactated Ringer's (LR) or Hartmann's solution, not the most universally referenced 0.9% Normal Saline.
Option D: A sodium concentration of 120 mEq/L does not match the composition of standard crystalloid solutions used in general medical practice.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain The concept tested is the electrolyte composition, specifically the sodium concentration, of common intravenous crystalloid solutions used in clinical practice as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses must know the composition of IV fluids to administer them safely. Choosing the wrong fluid can lead to serious electrolyte imbalances and acid-base disturbances.
For example, administering large volumes of 0.9% NS can cause hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis, while giving Lactated Ringer's to a patient with severe liver disease is contraindicated as their liver cannot metabolize the lactate.
Patient safety depends on selecting the appropriate fluid for the clinical situation, such as using balanced solutions like LR for large-volume resuscitation to avoid acidosis.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core of the question, which is asking for the sodium concentration in a 'crystalloid solution'.
Recognize that 'crystalloid solution' is a broad category. Recall the most common examples taught in nursing: 0.9% Normal Saline (NS) and Lactated Ringer's (LR).
Recall the standard sodium concentrations for these common solutions.
Scan the options to see which values match your recalled knowledge. You should recognize 154 mEq/L for NS and 130 mEq/L for LR.
Since both are technically correct for different crystalloids, consider which is the most fundamental or 'default' answer. 0.9% Normal Saline is often treated as the baseline isotonic solution.
Select the option corresponding to 0.9% Normal Saline (154 mEq/L) as the most likely intended answer.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: The concept tested is the electrolyte composition, specifically the sodium concentration, of common intravenous crystalloid solutions used in clinical practice.
Stem keywords: concentration, sodium, crystalloid solution
Lead-in keywords: What is

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