Understanding D10W: The Composition
To answer the question, "How much dextrose is contained in 250 mL D10W Select one 25 g 25 mg 250 g 250 mg?", it's essential to first understand the components of D10W. The abbreviation D10W stands for 10% Dextrose in Water. This means the solution is composed of 10 grams of dextrose (glucose) dissolved in every 100 milliliters of water. Dextrose is a simple sugar, and a key energy source for the body, making this solution valuable in many clinical settings. Its use is common for treating hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), providing nutritional support, and serving as a vehicle for administering other medications. Understanding the percentage concentration is the key to all subsequent calculations.
The Calculation: Determining Dextrose in 250 mL
Given that D10W has a concentration of 10 grams of dextrose per 100 mL of solution, a straightforward proportional calculation can determine the amount in 250 mL.
The Proportional Method
- Establish the known ratio: 10 g of dextrose / 100 mL of solution.
- Set up the proportion: $\frac{10\text{ g}}{100\text{ mL}} = \frac{x\text{ g}}{250\text{ mL}}$
- Solve for x: To isolate $x$, multiply both sides by 250 mL. $x = \frac{10\text{ g} \times 250\text{ mL}}{100\text{ mL}}$
- Simplify the equation: $x = \frac{2500}{100} = 25\text{ g}$
Therefore, a 250 mL bag of D10W contains 25 grams of dextrose. This confirms that the first option, 25 g, is the correct answer. This simple but critical calculation is routinely performed by nurses and pharmacists to ensure correct patient dosage and care.
The Final Answer: Why 25 g is Correct
The multiple-choice question presents several options, but only one is mathematically and clinically sound. The other options are incorrect for the following reasons:
- 25 mg: A milligram (mg) is one-thousandth of a gram (1 g = 1000 mg). 25 mg is a fraction of a gram, a vastly different amount from the 25 g contained in the solution. Such an error would be a significant and dangerous dosing mistake in a clinical setting. 25 g is equivalent to 25,000 mg.
- 250 g: This quantity is 10 times the actual amount and would represent a 100% dextrose solution in 250 mL, which is a different concentration and used for different, highly specific purposes. It's a calculation error that confuses the volume with the mass.
- 250 mg: Similar to the 25 mg option, this is a milligram-based unit and is still a fraction of the correct gram amount. It represents a different order of magnitude, highlighting the importance of unit conversion and attention to detail in medical settings.
A Comparison of Dextrose Solutions
To provide further context, it is helpful to compare D10W with other common dextrose solutions, such as D5W (5% dextrose in water). This table illustrates the differences in their composition and primary uses, emphasizing why the specific concentration is so important.
| Feature | D10W (10% Dextrose in Water) | D5W (5% Dextrose in Water) |
|---|---|---|
| Dextrose Concentration | 10 g per 100 mL | 5 g per 100 mL |
| Energy Content | 340 kcal per liter | 170 kcal per liter |
| Relative Tonicity | Hypertonic (505 mOsm/L) | Isotonic (but becomes hypotonic in the body) |
| Primary Uses | Treating hypoglycemia, nutritional support, providing calories | Fluid replacement, hydration, medication dilution |
| Administration Precautions | Administered via large vein or central line due to hypertonicity | Can be administered via peripheral vein |
Clinical Applications and Considerations for D10W
The use of D10W extends beyond simple hydration. Its higher caloric value compared to D5W makes it suitable for specific medical interventions. Key applications include:
- Treating Hypoglycemia: For patients with dangerously low blood sugar levels, D10W provides a rapid and effective way to raise glucose levels intravenously.
- Nutritional Support: In critical care or for patients who cannot consume food orally, D10W is a critical part of total parenteral nutrition (TPN) to supply necessary calories.
- Medication Dilution: Certain medications require a specific fluid for dilution before intravenous administration. D10W is a compatible carrier fluid for many drugs.
- Neonatal Care: For infants with hypoglycemia, D10W is often the preferred solution, administered as a bolus or maintenance infusion, and is safer for their veins than more concentrated options.
It is crucial that healthcare providers understand the proper administration protocols, including appropriate infusion rates and monitoring, to prevent complications such as hyperglycemia or electrolyte disturbances. More detailed information on administration and precautions can be found in a reputable pharmaceutical resource [https://www.drugs.com/pro/dextrose-injection-10.html].
Conclusion: The Importance of Precision in Medical Calculations
The question of how much dextrose is contained in 250 mL D10W highlights the importance of precision in medical calculations. The correct answer, 25 g, is derived from a clear understanding of the solution's concentration. While the calculation is simple, it underpins patient safety and effective treatment, ensuring that patients receive the correct dose of a critical nutrient. In a field where the difference between grams and milligrams can be a matter of life and death, confirming these fundamental principles is of paramount importance.
