For a client with hypernatremia needing IV fluid therapy, which solution should be infused?

In the case of a client with hypernatremia, the goal is to gradually lower the sodium levels in the blood while ensuring adequate hydration. The infusion of 0.45% sodium chloride (half-normal saline) is appropriate for this scenario because it is a hypotonic solution. This means that it contains a lower concentration of sodium chloride compared to the body's fluid and will help to dilute the sodium levels in the bloodstream.

By infusing 0.45% sodium chloride, the body can more effectively restore normal fluid levels. This solution provides fluids without adding significant amounts of sodium, which is crucial in hypernatremia management, where the primary concern is reducing high sodium concentration while avoiding rapid shifts that could lead to cellular edema or complications.

In contrast, 0.9% sodium chloride is isotonic and does not aid in reducing sodium levels, while 5% dextrose in water becomes hypotonic after metabolism but does not contain sodium and thus may not address the hypernatremia directly. Lactated Ringer’s solution contains electrolytes, including sodium, which may worsen hypernatremia by adding more sodium to the system. Therefore, 0.45% sodium chloride is the most suitable choice for treating hypernatrem