What is the composition of physiologic saline?

Physiologic saline, commonly referred to as normal saline, is composed of 0.9 grams of sodium chloride (NaCl) dissolved in 100 milliliters of water. This specific concentration emulates the saline concentration found in the human body, which is essential for maintaining fluid balance and osmotic pressure in various physiological contexts.

This solution is frequently utilized in medical settings for various purposes, such as rehydration, as a vehicle for intravenous medications, or for irrigation. The precise concentration is crucial since deviations can lead to adverse effects, particularly if the saline is either too concentrated or too dilute.

Other options provided do not match the composition of physiologic saline. For instance, a 10% salt solution represents a significantly higher concentration that would not be suitable for most medical uses, while albumin and fresh frozen plasma are components of blood products rather than saline solutions. Understanding the specific composition of physiologic saline is vital for practitioners to ensure proper hydration and electrolyte balance in patients.