68. What percentage of sodium chloride does NS contain?
Answer: B
NS contains 0.90% sodium chloride.
Normal Saline (NS) is a solution that contains 0.90% sodium chloride, which is commonly used in medical settings for various purposes, including hydration and as a vehicle for medications.
A) 0.13%
This option is incorrect because a sodium chloride concentration of 0.13% would be significantly lower than that of normal saline. Normal saline is specifically defined as containing 0.90% sodium chloride, making 0.13% an inaccurate representation of its composition.
B) 0.90%
This option is correct as Normal Saline (NS) is specifically formulated to have a concentration of 0.90% sodium chloride. This precise concentration is essential for its use in medical treatments, ensuring compatibility with bodily fluids.
C) 3%
This option is incorrect because a sodium chloride concentration of 3% would be classified as a hypertonic saline solution. Normal saline is not hypertonic; it is isotonic with a sodium chloride concentration of 0.90%, making this option unsuitable.
D) 23.40%
This option is incorrect as well since a sodium chloride concentration of 23.40% is excessively high and would be considered a hypertonic solution. Such a concentration would not be safe for typical medical use as Normal Saline is defined by its 0.90% sodium chloride content.
Conclusion
The correct answer is 0.90% sodium chloride, which accurately reflects the composition of Normal Saline. All other options either underestimate or overestimate the sodium chloride concentration, making them invalid in the context of this specific solution. Understanding the correct concentration is crucial for its appropriate application in healthcare settings.