Grand Rounds: Misconceptions in the treatment of hyponatremia
08-08-2025
By Michael Moritz, MD , Director, Department of Nephrology, Akron Children's, Akron, OH
Objectives (Educational Content) :
1. Evaluate the symptoms of hyponatremic encephalopathy. 2. Assess risk factors for developing osmotic demyelination syndrome. 3. Implement strategies for safely administering hypertonic saline.
Target Audience:
General pediatricians, family physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, social workers, psychologists, and nurses.
Identified Gap:
Despite the prevalence of hyponatremia in clinical practice, misconceptions persist regarding its symptoms, risks, and treatment strategies. Many providers may not fully recognize the signs of hyponatremic encephalopathy, underestimate the risk factors for osmotic demyelination syndrome, or lack confidence in safely administering hypertonic saline.
Estimated Time to Complete the Educational Activity:
1 hour(s)
Expiration Date for CE/CME Credit:
08-07-2026
Method of Participation in the Learning Process:
The learner will view the presentation, successfully complete a post-test and complete an activity evaluation.
Evaluation Methods:
All learners must successfully complete a post-test, as well as an activity evaluation, to claim CE/CME credit.
Disclosure:
The following presenter has indicated that there are no financial relationship with any ineligible companies: Michael Moritz, MD The following planning committee member has indicated that a financial relationship with an ineligible company: Merck - Maria Victorio, MD All relationships have been mitigated. The remaining planning committee/CME committee members have indicated that they have no financial relationships with any ineligible companies.
Accreditation Statement:
Akron Children’s Hospital is accredited by the Ohio State Medical Association to provide continuing medical education for physicians.
Akron Children’s Hospital designates this enduring material activity for a maximum of 1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit TM. Physicians should only claim the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
Bibliography:
1. Stricker et al. In: Fundamental Neuroscience. 2nd ed. 2003;1011-1029.
2. Moritz ML, Ayus JC. N Engl J Med 2015;373:1350-1360
3. Musch and Decaux Q J Med 1998;91:749
