Isotonic, Hypertonic, and Hypotonic Solutions

The video tutorial explains the differences between hypotonic, hypertonic, and isotonic fluids. Hypotonic fluids cause cells to swell as fluid enters, hypertonic fluids cause cells to shrink as fluid exits, and isotonic fluids maintain cell size with no fluid exchange. The instructor provides examples of each type, such as 0.45% NS for hypotonic, 3% NS for hypertonic, and normal saline for isotonic. Memory aids and common test questions are discussed to help students remember these concepts.

What is the main characteristic of hypotonic fluids?

• They maintain fluid balance without exchange.

• They cause fluid to enter the cell.

• They cause fluid to leave the cell.

• They are not used in medical settings.

Which of the following is a hypotonic solution?

• 0.9% NS

• 3% NS

• 0.45% NS

• D5W

What is a key feature of hypertonic solutions?

• They cause cells to swell.

• They have large numbers.

• They are isotonic.

• They have small numbers.

Which solution is considered hypertonic?

• D5W

• Lactated Ringers

• 0.225% NS

• 0.9% NS

What is the primary use of isotonic solutions in medical settings?

• To draw fluid into cells.

• To remove fluid from cells.

• To increase cell size.

• To maintain fluid balance in veins.

Which of the following is an isotonic solution?

• 3% NS

• 0.33% NS

• D10W

• 0.9% NS

What is a common use for lactated ringers?

• Cellular dehydration

• Daily hydration

• Post-surgery fluid replacement

• Pre-surgery hydration

Which mnemonic helps remember hypertonic solutions?

• Fluid in, fluid out

• Big numbers, big cells

• Tiny numbers, tiny people

• Perfect balance, perfect cells

What is the mnemonic for isotonic solutions?

• Fluid balance

• Tiny numbers, big effect

• Hypo in, hyper out

• Isoperfect

Which solution type is most commonly used in hospitals?

• Hypotonic

• None of the above

• Hypertonic

• Isotonic