Multiple choice

Hypernatremia is defined by an elevated sodium level in blood. Which of the following is not associated with hypernatremia?

  1. A good response to treatment by fluid restriction

  2. Increased neurological irritability

  3. Inadequate urinary concentration

  4. Loss of body water

  5. A rise in plasma osmolality
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A Correct answer
Explanation

The basic problem is usually loss of water. It is treated with careful replacement of water. As with hyponatremia, it is important not to replace the loss too quickly. The cells make compensatory changes during hyperosmolar conditions and a sudden change can be dangerous as the cells do not have time to readjust back to normal. The best way to prevent this is to keep checking the plasma sodium to ensure that it is not changing too quickly.

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