Metric Conversions

1 kg

1000g

1 g

1000mg

1 mg

1000mcg

1L

1000 mL

2.2 pounds

1 kg

1 ounce

30 mL or 2 TBS

1 T, TBS, tbs

15 mL

1 t, TSP, tsp

5 mL

3 tsp

1 TBS

6 tsp

1 ounce

meter abbreviation

m

Gram abbreviation

g

Liter abbreviation

L

Kilo abbreviation

k (think BIG)

Milli abbreviation

m (think small)

Micro abbreviation

mc (think even smaller)

Isotonic (IV solutions)

Isotonic solutions have the same osmolality as blood plasma and do not cause any fluid shift. They are used to replace fluids and electrolytes, maintain hydration, and treat hypovolemia.

Hypotonic (IV solutions)

Hypotonic solutions have a lower osmolality than blood plasma and cause fluid to shift into cells and interstitial compartments. They are used to treat cellular dehydration, reduce edema, and dilute extracellular fluid.

Hypetonic (IV solutions)

Hypertonic solutions have a higher osmolality than blood plasma and cause fluid to shift out of cells. They are used to treat hyponatremia, cerebral edema, stabilize blood pressure, regulate urine output, and minimize the effects of a drastic decrease in serum osmolality.

Isotonic (solution examples)

• 0.9% normal saline (sodium chloride)

• Lactated Ringers aka Ringers Lactate (LR)

• 5% dextrose in water (DSW)

Hypotonic (solution examples)

• 0.45 sodium chloride (0.45 NS) aka half normal saline

• 0.33 sodium chloride

• 2.5 dextrose in water

Hypertonic (solution examples)

• (D5 ½ NS) 5% dextrose in 0.45% sodium chloride

• (D5 NS) 5% dextrose in 0.9% sodium chloride