Hypertonic Fluids do what?

Hypertonic Fluids do what?

• A. Move fluid into cells
• B. Expand vascular volume
• C. Indicate fluid in alveoli
• D. Pull fluid into bloodstream

Answer: (B)

Hypertonic fluids create an osmotic pull because they have higher osmolality than plasma. This draws water from intracellular and interstitial spaces into the intravascular space, expanding the vascular (blood) volume. It doesn’t indicate fluid in the alveoli; rather, it increases circulating volume. Also, since water moves out of cells, cells shrink rather than swell. Use with care to avoid fluid overload or electrolyte imbalances.

Hypertonic fluids create an osmotic pull because they have higher osmolality than plasma. This draws water from intracellular and interstitial spaces into the intravascular space, expanding the vascular (blood) volume. It doesn’t indicate fluid in the alveoli; rather, it increases circulating volume. Also, since water moves out of cells, cells shrink rather than swell. Use with care to avoid fluid overload or electrolyte imbalances.