PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

What is a common treatment for hyponatremia?

1. Fluid restriction

2. Diuretic therapy

3. Continuous IV hydration

4. Potassium replacement

The correct answer is: Fluid restriction

Fluid restriction is a common treatment for hyponatremia, particularly in cases of euvolemic or hypervolemic hyponatremia. This approach aims to limit the intake of additional water, which can help to raise serum sodium levels by promoting the elimination of excess water and thus returning the sodium concentration in the blood to normal. When the body’s sodium levels are low, excessive fluid can exacerbate the situation, making fluid restriction a crucial intervention. It’s important to note that fluid restriction is often selected based on the underlying cause of hyponatremia. In conditions like syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH), restricting fluid intake reduces the volume overload and encourages the kidneys to excrete excess free water, which helps to correct sodium levels over time. In contrast, diuretic therapy, continuous IV hydration, and potassium replacement may not be appropriate or effective for managing hyponatremia. Diuretics can potentially worsen hyponatremia by causing further electrolyte imbalances. Continuous IV hydration could exacerbate the condition if excess fluid is given, and potassium replacement is unrelated to the correction of sodium levels specifically. Thus, fluid restriction is a targeted and effective strategy for treating this electrolyte disturbance