Which of the following statements is true regarding fluid shifts?
A) There are always more positive electrolytes than negative in a solution; it is therefore impossible to follow fluid shifts.
B) Nonelectrolytes are the controlling factor in directing fluid shifts.
C) Electrolytes are not as important as proteins in regulating fluid shifts in the body.
D) Electrolytes have greater osmotic power than nonelectrolytes and therefore have the greatest ability to cause fluid shifts.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Electrolytes have greater osmotic power due to their ability to dissociate into ions, which attracts water molecules through osmosis. This allows them to have a significant influence on fluid shifts. Nonelectrolytes, on the other hand, do not dissociate into ions and therefore have relatively low osmotic power. Proteins are important for regulating fluid balance, but they do not have as much of an impact on fluid shifts as electrolytes do. Option A is incorrect as there are solutions with more negative electrolytes than positive ones, and it is possible to follow fluid shifts. Option B is incorrect as nonelectrolytes have a relatively minor role in fluid shifts compared to electrolytes.

Which of the Following Statements Is True Regarding Fluid Shifts