Canadian Practical Nurse Registration Examination (CPNRE) 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Reducing sodium levels gradually in cases of hypernatremia is crucial primarily to prevent cerebral edema. Hypernatremia occurs when there is an excess of sodium in the bloodstream, leading to water being pulled out of the cells to balance the sodium concentration. If sodium levels are decreased too rapidly, particularly in cases where there have been prolonged elevated sodium levels, this can result in a rapid influx of water into brain cells. The brain is particularly sensitive to changes in osmolarity, and a rapid decrease in serum sodium can overwhelm the body's ability to adjust, causing cells to swell and potentially leading to cerebral edema. This condition can have severe neurological repercussions, including seizures, coma, or even death.

The other options, while they may be relevant to the overall patient experience, do not directly address the fundamental physiological risks posed by suddenly altering sodium levels. Muscle cramps, nausea, and urine output are considerations in the management of fluid and electrolyte imbalances but are not the primary concerns when discussing the management of hypernatremia specifically. The emphasis on gradual sodium reduction highlights its critical role in ensuring patient safety and preventing serious complications.