Fluid and Electrolytes

The short answer is, "When they are prescribed." It's never your call which one to hang.

So, what's the real question here? What do you know already, and what confuses you? Then we can help you with your homework.

Hi, Doriancita-

That depends on what that goal is for the patient. For example, are you trying to expand fluid volume, resuscitate with fluids, shift things in/out of cells, add sugar....etc? This is where learning about hypo- hyper- and isotonic solutions come into play.

What's your understanding of these?

may I recommend you review the terms isotonic, hypotonic and hypertonic? Which of the stated fluids fall into each category?

Isotonic fluids are used to keep cellular and vascular spaces balanced

Hypotonic and hypertonic fluids will shift fluid from cells to vascular system depending on which has the highest concentrated solution. The body is trying to create balance by allowing fluid to shift around.

I have a copy of Fluids and Electrolytes made Incredibly Easy, and still refer to it frequently!