What characterizes hypertonic fluids in relation to cell volume?

Hypertonic fluids are characterized by having a higher concentration of solutes compared to the fluid inside the cells. When cells are exposed to hypertonic solutions, water moves out of the cells in an attempt to balance the solute concentrations on both sides of the cell membrane. This process can lead to cell shrinkage, as the intracellular fluid is drawn out to the extracellular environment where the concentration of solutes is greater.

This dynamic is crucial in clinical settings, as administering hypertonic fluids can be a strategic choice for managing certain medical conditions, such as hyponatremia or specific types of cerebral edema, where reducing cellular swelling is desired. Understanding the osmolarity and its effects on cellular behavior is essential in critical care nursing, particularly when dealing with fluid management and electrolytes. The other options refer to lower concentrations, equal concentrations, or the absence of solutes, which do not accurately describe the properties of hypertonic fluids.