Which IV solution listed is a balanced crystalloid solution?

Which IV solution listed is a balanced crystalloid solution?

• A. 0.9% Normal saline
• B. Lactated Ringers
• C. 5% Dextrose
• D. Antibiotic solution

Answer: (B)

Balanced crystalloids have an electrolyte makeup that mirrors plasma and include a buffering agent to help maintain acid-base balance. Lactated Ringer’s fits this category because it contains sodium, chloride, potassium, calcium, and lactate, the latter of which is metabolized to bicarbonate and provides a mild alkalinizing effect. This composition aims to approximate plasma osmolality and electrolyte levels, reducing the risk of acid-base disturbances compared with other fluids. Normal saline is isotonic but not balanced; it has a high chloride load and no buffering component, so large volumes can contribute to hyperchloremic acidosis. A dextrose solution provides free water and glucose but lacks substantial electrolytes, so it’s not a balanced crystalloid. An antibiotic solution is a medication solvent, not a crystalloid intended to replace electrolytes, so it doesn’t fit the category either. Therefore, the balanced crystalloid listed is Lactated Ringer’s.

Balanced crystalloids have an electrolyte makeup that mirrors plasma and include a buffering agent to help maintain acid-base balance. Lactated Ringer’s fits this category because it contains sodium, chloride, potassium, calcium, and lactate, the latter of which is metabolized to bicarbonate and provides a mild alkalinizing effect. This composition aims to approximate plasma osmolality and electrolyte levels, reducing the risk of acid-base disturbances compared with other fluids.

Normal saline is isotonic but not balanced; it has a high chloride load and no buffering component, so large volumes can contribute to hyperchloremic acidosis. A dextrose solution provides free water and glucose but lacks substantial electrolytes, so it’s not a balanced crystalloid. An antibiotic solution is a medication solvent, not a crystalloid intended to replace electrolytes, so it doesn’t fit the category either.

Therefore, the balanced crystalloid listed is Lactated Ringer’s.