Retaking the NCLEX in 5 days and reviewing some areas I struggle in :/

[scm0831]

Hello Everyone,

So I've been studying hard and I've realized I need some work understanding isotonic, hypertonic, and hypotonic solutions. Would anybody be able to explain in simple terms how hyper/hypotonic solutions work? I have isotonic down pretty well for the most part. Any tricks to how you remember the various solutions? Also if anyone knows what hyper/hypotonic solutions are used for? I know isotonic is used for fluid replacement, volume expansion, hypotension, burns, etc. But the other 2 for some reason I struggle with. Any feedback would be wonderful. Thank you! :)

Sarah

[wish_me_luck, BSN, RN]

I'll try and eplain it. Isotonic means equal and is your typical 0.9% NaCl and it's used for hydration, shock, etc. Hypotonic means there are less particles (Na, etc.), which is given for severe dehydration if oral fluids aren't adequate. There's less particles outside the cell than inside, therefore the pressure gradient is greater inside than out, pulling the IV fluid inside the cell, hydrating it. Hypertonic is when there's more particles, which is for decreasing edema in the brain and such. It works the opposite. It pulls the fluid outside the cell because the pressure gradient is greater outside the cell, therefore reducing edema. Does that help any???

[NursingBro]

wish_me_luck that was very good!

[scm0831]

wish_me_luck that was amazing! I completely understand now. Thank you so much for your help! :)