Which intravenous fluid is classified as a hypertonic solution?

Choice A reason: Dextrose 2.5% with water is considered a hypotonic solution because it has a lower osmolarity than plasma. Administering hypotonic solutions moves water into the intracellular space, which can hydrate cells but does not pull fluid from the cells into the intravascular space. Choice B reason: 0.9% sodium chloride, also called normal saline, is an isotonic solution because its osmolarity is approximately equal to that of plasma. It maintains fluid balance between the intravascular and interstitial spaces without causing significant fluid shifts into or out of cells. Choice C reason: Dextrose 5% in water (D5W) is considered isotonic in the bag but becomes hypotonic after metabolism of dextrose. It provides free water that distributes throughout the intracellular and extracellular compartments, and it does not function as a hypertonic solution. Choice D reason: 3% sodium chloride is a hypertonic solution because it has a higher osmolarity than plasma. Hypertonic solutions draw water out of cells into the intravascular space, which is useful in treating severe hyponatremia or cerebral edema. Administration requires careful monitoring to prevent fluid overload, hypernatremia, and cellular dehydration.