Question

The body fluid compartments of a patient were measured, which showed the following values:
Na-10
K-140
Cl-15
Name the fluid compartment.

• A. Interstitial fluid
• B. ECF
• C. ICF
• D. Total body fluid

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

The intracellular fluid (ICF) is characterized by high concentrations of potassium (K) and low concentrations of sodium (Na) and chloride (Cl) compared to extracellular fluid. In this problem, the measurements are:
Na: 10 mEq/L
K: 140 mEq/L
Cl: 15 mEq/L.

• Na levels are low, indicating it is likely not extracellular fluid (ECF) or interstitial fluid.
• K levels are high, which is characteristic of intracellular fluid (ICF).
• Cl levels are low, supporting that this is not ECF.

Based on these electrolyte concentrations, we can conclude that the fluid compartment is the intracellular fluid (ICF). The ICF, in most cells, contains low sodium levels, high potassium levels, and low chloride levels, matching the given values.