A nurse is caring for a client who has hypernatremia. Which of the following IV solutions should the nurse plan to administer?

Rationale: A. 0.45% sodium chloride: This is a hypotonic solution that helps lower elevated serum sodium levels by promoting water movement into the intracellular space. It is appropriate for correcting hypernatremia gradually while preventing cerebral edema. B. Lactated Ringer's: Lactated Ringer’s is an isotonic solution containing sodium, potassium, and calcium. It is not ideal for hypernatremia because its sodium content can maintain or worsen elevated serum sodium levels. C. 0.9% sodium chloride: Normal saline is isotonic and contains a high concentration of sodium, which would not reduce hypernatremia and could exacerbate the condition if used for correction. D. 3% sodium chloride: This hypertonic solution increases serum sodium levels and is used to treat hyponatremia, not hypernatremia. Administering it to a client with hypernatremia would worsen the electrolyte imbalance.