What characterizes hypertonic fluids in IV therapy?

Hypertonic fluids in IV therapy are characterized by having a higher osmotic pressure than body fluids. This means that when hypertonic fluids are administered, they exert a greater osmotic pull compared to the fluids found within the body's cells and extracellular spaces. As a result, these fluids draw water out of the cells and into the bloodstream, which can lead to cellular shrinkage.

The primary use of hypertonic fluids is to treat specific medical conditions, such as severe hyponatremia, where the sodium levels in the blood are dangerously low. By increasing the osmotic pressure in the vascular space, hypertonic fluids can help to quickly restore electrolyte levels and manage fluid shifts in the body.

In contrast, fluids with a lower osmotic pressure than body fluids would be classified as hypotonic, which would lead to the movement of water into cells and could cause them to swell. Hypertonic fluids are not primarily intended for immediate hydration; instead, they are used to modify fluid and electrolyte balance in a controlled manner.