A client who was involved in a motor vehicle accident is bleeding very heavily. Which of the following would be required to best replace the circulating blood?

Question

A) Colloid solution
B) Hypertonic solution
C) Hypotonic solution
D) Isotonic solution

Answer 1

A
Feedback:
The nurse should use a colloid solution to replace the circulating blood in the client. Colloid solutions such as blood, blood products, and solutions known as plasma expanders are used to replace circulating blood volume because the suspended molecules pull fluid from other compartments. Hypertonic solution is not used very frequently except in extreme cases when it is necessary to reduce cerebral edema or to expand the circulatory volume rapidly. Hypotonic solution is administered to clients with fluid losses in excess of fluid intake, such as those who have diarrhea or vomiting. Isotonic solution is administered to maintain fluid balance in clients who may not be able to eat or drink for a short period. These solutions are not used to replace severe losses of circulating blood.