Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT) Practice Test

What is a potential complication of administering D5W IV solution?

1. Fluid overload

2. Hyperglycemia

3. Hypoglycemia

4. Infection

The correct answer is: Hyperglycemia

Administering D5W (5% dextrose in water) IV solution can pose several risks, with hyperglycemia being a noteworthy complication. When D5W is infused, the dextrose component is metabolized into glucose, which can lead to elevated blood sugar levels, especially in patients with impaired glucose tolerance or diabetes. This is particularly concerning in patients who may already be at risk of hyperglycemia due to their underlying medical conditions or medication usage. Hyperglycemia can result in various complications, such as dehydration, polyuria, and can exacerbate existing metabolic derangements. It is essential for healthcare providers to monitor blood glucose levels when administering D5W, especially in those patients who may be predisposed to higher glucose levels. Other components related to this topic include fluid overload, which is a potential concern with any IV fluid administration, particularly in patients with heart or kidney problems. Hypoglycemia could occur in other contexts, such as if D5W was suddenly stopped without tapering or if the patient had a high insulin requirement. Infection could also be a risk with any invasive procedure, but it's not specifically associated with D5W itself. Proper monitoring and assessment can help mitigate these risks.