[PDF] 5 dextrose in water isotonic or hypotonic

Is 5% dextrose in water isotonic?

It is important to be familiar with what fluids are isotonic and when they are given. 5% dextrose in water (D5W)**also used as a hypotonic solution after it is administered because the body absorbs the dextrose BUT it is considered isotonic)

Can a dextrose solution be hypotonic?

If you want to dilute the sodium or potassium in the bloodstream, then choosing a dextrose solution that becomes hypotonic, such as D5W, might be an option. Although this provides the patient with sugar, which they may not actually need, the remaining hypotonic water will want to stay in the blood stream to dilute the excess amount of electrolytes.

Are D5W & 5% saline isotonic?

For example, D5W and 5% Dextrose in 0.225% Saline are both isotonic in the bag. However, once administered and the dextrose is absorbed, the remaining fluids are 1) water (for D5W) or 2) 1/4 Normal Saline (for Dextrose in 0.225% Saline). In either case, the remaining fluids are hypotonic and would begin acting that way in the intravascular space.

What is a hypotonic IV fluid?

0.225% Sodium Chloride Solution is often used as a maintenance fluid for pediatric patients as it is the most hypotonic IV fluid available at 77 mOsm/L. Used together with dextrose. Another hypotonic IV solution commonly used is 2.5% dextrose in water (D2.5W).