NAPLEX (North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination) Practice Exam

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What severe condition can rapidly correcting sodium more than 12 mEq/L/24 hours cause?

Osmotic demyelination syndrome (ODS)
Acute renal failure
Hemolytic anemia
Liver cirrhosis

The correct answer is: Osmotic demyelination syndrome (ODS)

Rapidly correcting sodium levels can cause a severe condition called osmotic demyelination syndrome (ODS). ODS occurs when there is a rapid shift in the body's osmolality, which can result in damage to the myelin sheath that protects nerve fibers in the brain. This condition can lead to a range of neurological symptoms and potentially irreversible damage. Option B, acute renal failure, may be a possible side effect of correcting sodium levels too quickly, as the sudden change can put a strain on the kidneys. However, it is not the most severe condition that can occur. Option C, hemolytic anemia, is caused by the destruction of red blood cells and is not a consequence of correcting sodium levels. Option D, liver cirrhosis, is a chronic condition that is not typically affected by rapid changes in sodium levels.