CSSD Practice Exam 2025 – Complete Study Resource

When sodium intake exceeds 3 grams, the body requires additional fluid to help mitigate the effects of sodium retention and maintain proper electrolyte balance. The kidneys typically regulate sodium levels by excreting excess sodium through urine. However, to facilitate this process efficiently, additional fluid intake is necessary to support urinary output and to help dilute the sodium in the bloodstream.

The general principle is that for every gram of sodium ingested above the recommended daily allowance, approximately 0.5 liters of fluid may be required for adequate excretion. Given this guideline, an intake exceeding 3 grams—the amount mentioned in the question—indicates a need for roughly an additional liter of water to maintain homeostasis and promote the effective elimination of excess sodium.

In this case, the correct response aligning with the recommended fluid intake to manage a sodium excess of this magnitude is indeed a 1-liter increase, which corresponds with the body’s need for additional hydration to counterbalance the sodium load.