The nurse is teaching assistive personnel (AP) about hormones that are produced by the adrenal glands. Which hormone has the primary responsibility of maintaining fluid volume and electrolyte composition?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Aldosterone. Aldosterone is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands that plays a crucial role in maintaining fluid volume and electrolyte composition by regulating sodium and potassium levels in the body. It promotes sodium reabsorption and potassium excretion in the kidneys, helping to maintain blood pressure and electrolyte balance. Therefore, aldosterone has the primary responsibility for maintaining fluid volume and electrolyte composition.
A: Sodium - While sodium is an important electrolyte involved in fluid balance, it is not a hormone produced by the adrenal glands.
B: Magnesium - Magnesium is also an important electrolyte, but it is not primarily responsible for maintaining fluid volume and electrolyte composition in the body.
D: Renin - Renin is an enzyme produced by the kidneys that plays a role in regulating blood pressure and fluid balance, but it is not a hormone produced by the adrenal glands and does not have the primary responsibility for maintaining fluid volume and electrolyte composition.