The healthcare provider has prescribed hypotonic intravenous (IV) fluids for a client admitted with dehydration. Which solution should the nurse anticipate administering?

Choice A reason: Lactated Ringers is classified as an isotonic intravenous solution. It has an osmolality similar to plasma and is commonly used for fluid resuscitation and replacement of intravascular volume. Because it does not promote movement of water into cells, it is not appropriate when a hypotonic solution is prescribed. Choice B reason: Dextrose 5% with Lactated Ringers is a hypertonic solution due to the added dextrose. Hypertonic fluids draw water out of cells and into the intravascular space, which is the opposite of the intended effect when hypotonic fluids are ordered for dehydration at the cellular level. Choice C reason: 0.9% sodium chloride, also known as normal saline, is an isotonic solution. It expands extracellular and intravascular volume without causing fluid shifts into or out of cells. This does not meet the criteria for a hypotonic solution. Choice D reason: 0.45% sodium chloride is a hypotonic solution. It has a lower osmolality than plasma and allows water to move from the extracellular space into the intracellular space, helping to hydrate cells. This makes it the appropriate solution to administer when hypotonic IV fluids are prescribed.