ATI Fluid and Electrolytes

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Infiltration is the administration of a nonvesicant solution or medication into the surrounding tissue, typically due to the dislodgement or perforation of the vein wall by the IV cannula. It is characterized by edema around the insertion site, leakage of IV fluid, discomfort, coolness, and a decrease in flow rate. In this scenario, the presence of edema indicates infiltration, not air emboli, phlebitis, or fluid overload. Air emboli refer to air bubbles in the bloodstream, phlebitis is inflammation of the vein, and fluid overload is an excessive volume of fluid in the circulatory system.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is the kidneys. The kidneys are primarily responsible for regulating fluid balance by filtering blood and adjusting the volume and concentration of urine. The lungs primarily regulate gas exchange, not fluid balance. The skin plays a role in temperature regulation and protection but is not the primary organ for fluid output. The intestines are mainly involved in the absorption of nutrients and water, rather than fluid output.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In dehydration, the body first draws fluid from the interstitial space to maintain blood volume, leading to a decrease in interstitial fluid volume. This is why choice C is correct. Choice A is incorrect because intracellular fluid is not the first to be affected. Choice B is also incorrect as plasma volume reduction typically occurs after interstitial fluid loss. Choice D is incorrect as dehydration impacts both interstitial and intracellular fluid volumes.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Specific gravity is a test used to determine the concentration of solutes in the urine, reflecting the kidney's ability to concentrate urine. Changes in specific gravity can indicate fluid volume status, such as dehydration (fluid volume deficit) or overhydration (fluid volume excess). Options A, B, and C are incorrect as specific gravity does not directly detect nutritional deficits, hyperkalemia, or hypercalcemia.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Electrolytes are substances that dissociate into ions when dissolved in water, allowing the solution to conduct electricity. Choice A is incorrect because glucose does not form electrolytes when added to water. Choice B is incorrect as it states that electrolytes dissociate but do not form ions, which is inaccurate as electrolytes do form ions in water solutions. Choice C is also incorrect as it states that electrolytes form ions but may not necessarily dissociate, which goes against the definition of electrolytes that must dissociate into ions for conductivity. Therefore, choice D is the most accurate as it correctly describes that electrolytes dissociate in water solutions and form ions, highlighting the essential characteristics of electrolytes.