ATI Fluid Electrolyte and Acid-Base Regulation Related

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

When planning the care of a patient with a fluid imbalance, the nurse understands that in the human body, water
and electrolytes move from the arterial capillary bed to the interstitial fluid. What causes this to occur?

  • A. Active transport of hydrogen ions across the capillary walls
  • B. Pressure of the blood in the renal capillaries
  • C. Action of the dissolved particles contained in a unit of blood
  • D. Hydrostatic pressure resulting from the pumping action of the heart
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Rationale: The correct answer is D. Hydrostatic pressure resulting from the pumping action of the heart causes water and electrolytes to move from the arterial capillary bed to the interstitial fluid. This occurs due to the force exerted by the heart's pumping action, pushing fluid out of the capillaries into the interstitial space. This process is known as filtration and is essential for maintaining fluid balance in the body.

Summary of other choices:
A: Active transport of hydrogen ions does not directly cause the movement of water and electrolytes between capillaries and interstitial fluid.
B: The pressure in renal capillaries specifically relates to the kidneys, not the general movement of water and electrolytes in the body.
C: The dissolved particles in blood do not directly contribute to the movement of water and electrolytes between capillaries and interstitial fluid.