Question

A nurse is caring for a hospitalized child who has hypotonic dehydration. Which serum sodium level would this student expect to observe?

Answer 1

The student would expect to observe a low serum sodium level in a child with hypotonic dehydration. Hypotonic dehydration occurs when there is a greater loss of solute (such as sodium) compared to water, resulting in a dilution of sodium in the body. Monitoring fluid intake and managing dehydration is important.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the case of hypotonic dehydration, the student would expect to observe a low serum sodium level. Hypotonic dehydration occurs when there is a greater loss of solute (such as sodium) compared to water. This leads to a dilution of sodium in the body, resulting in a low serum sodium level.

For example, if the normal range for serum sodium is 135-145 mEq/L, the student may expect to observe a value below this range, such as 130 mEq/L.

It's important for the nurse to monitor the child's fluid intake and manage the dehydration appropriately, which may involve administering fluids with a higher sodium concentration.