A 6-year-old child is receiving an intravenous solution of 10% glucose and mannitol to reduce cerebral edema. Which complication would the nurse monitor the child for?

The scenario involves a child receiving an intravenous solution of 10% glucose and mannitol, both of which are used in the management of cerebral edema. When administering mannitol, a hyperosmotic agent, the primary concern is the potential for hypovolemic shock. Mannitol acts by drawing fluid out of tissues and into the vascular space, which can lead to a rapid shift of fluid and result in decreased tissue perfusion if not carefully monitored.

As mannitol increases plasma osmolality and promotes diuresis, there is a risk of intravascular volume depletion, especially if fluid intake is insufficient or if significant diuresis occurs. This can cause a decrease in blood volume, leading to the complications of hypovolemic shock, which is characterized by low blood pressure, increased heart rate, and potential organ dysfunction due to inadequate perfusion.

While hyperglycemia and electrolyte imbalances are relevant considerations with a solution containing glucose and other intravenous fluids, hypovolemic shock is the more immediate concern due to mannitol's effects on intravascular volume. Additionally, cardiac arrest can be a consequence of severe hypovolemic shock but is a more extreme outcome rather than a direct complication of the treatment. Monitoring for