types of dextrose
Solutions with an electrolyte content of 375 mEq/L or more are considered hypertonic. Hypertonic solutions are infused to treat patients who have severe hyponatremia. Depending on the type of hypertonic fluid infused, it can provide patients with calories, free water, and some electrolytes. Examples of hypertonic solutions are dextrose 10% in water (D10W) and dextrose 5% in 0.9% sodium chloride (D5NS). Because hypertonic solutions can be extremely irritating to the patientâs veins, some must only be infused through a central line.