Which type of IV fluid is hypertonic?

Hypertonic IV fluids are those that have a higher osmolarity compared to the body's own fluids, which can lead to osmotic movement of water out of cells. Dextrose 5% in Normal Saline (D5NS) is considered hypertonic when it is administered because the combination of dextrose and sodium chloride in normal saline creates a solution that exerts a higher osmotic pressure than blood plasma.

When D5NS is infused, the dextrose component is metabolized quickly, leaving behind a solution that is rich in sodium, which increases the osmotic concentration of the fluid. This can help to draw fluid out of cells and into the vascular space, which may be beneficial in various clinical situations, such as treating hypovolemia.

In contrast, Normal Saline is isotonic, Dextrose 5% in Water is also isotonic (until the dextrose is metabolized), and Lactated Ringer's Solution has an osmolarity similar to that of plasma, making it isotonic as well. Understanding these properties is critical for healthcare professionals to effectively utilize IV fluids for patient treatment.