ATI Fluid Electrolyte and Acid-Base Regulation Related

Review ATI Fluid Electrolyte and Acid-Base Regulation related questions and content

Diagnostic testing has been ordered to differentiate between normal anion gap acidosis and high anion gap acidosis
in an acutely ill patient. What health problem typically precedes normal anion gap acidosis?

  • A. Metastases
  • B. Excessive potassium intake
  • C. Water intoxication
  • D. Excessive administration of chloride
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Excessive administration of chloride. Normal anion gap acidosis is commonly caused by an excessive intake of chloride-containing solutions like normal saline during treatment. This leads to an increase in the plasma chloride concentration, causing a decrease in the anion gap. Metastases (A) are not typically associated with normal anion gap acidosis. Excessive potassium intake (B) would not lead to normal anion gap acidosis but rather hyperkalemia. Water intoxication (C) can lead to dilutional hyponatremia but not normal anion gap acidosis.