What is the abbreviation for 5% dextrose in water solution?

What is the abbreviation for 5% dextrose in water solution?

• A. N2O
• B. D5W
• C. MgSO4
• D. mm

Answer: (B)

Abbreviations for IV fluids use letters that describe the solute and solvent. D5W means dextrose 5% in water. The D stands for dextrose (glucose), the 5% shows the concentration, and the W indicates the solvent is water. This is the only choice that denotes a glucose solution in water. N2O is nitrous oxide gas, MgSO4 is magnesium sulfate, and mm isn’t a standard IV fluid abbreviation. D5W is often used as a diluent or to provide free water; after the glucose is metabolized, it effectively leaves water behind.

Abbreviations for IV fluids use letters that describe the solute and solvent. D5W means dextrose 5% in water. The D stands for dextrose (glucose), the 5% shows the concentration, and the W indicates the solvent is water. This is the only choice that denotes a glucose solution in water. N2O is nitrous oxide gas, MgSO4 is magnesium sulfate, and mm isn’t a standard IV fluid abbreviation. D5W is often used as a diluent or to provide free water; after the glucose is metabolized, it effectively leaves water behind.