Choosing the Correct IV
Therapy
Isotonic IV Solutions
Isotonic IV solutions include any
IV therapy that does not cause osmosis
or diffusion, meaning there is no
change in the composition of body
fluids. Two isotonic fluids commonly
used to replace fluid loss in patients
who do not have tonicity problems
are 0.9% NS and LR. Infusing isotonic
fluids does not generally alter the
fluid concentrations of the patient
when given as maintenance fluids
(Criss, 2007). Hypotensive and hypo -
volemic patients are excellent candidates
for isotonic fluid infusions due
to the increased fluid volume associated
with isotonic fluids. Patients who
are hyponatremic benefit from isotonic
IV solutions.