For which condition should hypertonic solutions be administered?

Hypertonic solutions are primarily utilized to manage cerebral edema because they can effectively reduce swelling in the brain. Cerebral edema involves an accumulation of excess fluid within the cranial cavity, which can increase intracranial pressure and lead to serious neurological complications. By administering a hypertonic solution, such as hypertonic saline, the osmotic gradient is altered, causing fluid to move out of the cerebral tissue and into the bloodstream. This helps to reduce the volume of fluid in the brain, alleviating pressure and potentially improving patient outcomes.

In contrast, the other conditions listed would not benefit from the use of hypertonic solutions. Severe acidosis typically requires treatment focused on correcting the underlying metabolic or respiratory issues rather than altering fluid volume in the body. Hyponatremia may also require careful management, often with isotonic or even hypertonic solutions, but it must be done cautiously to prevent neurological complications due to rapid correction. Hypokalemia treatment usually involves potassium supplementation rather than fluid therapy with hypertonic solutions.