Which statement about refeeding syndrome features is true?

• A. It is characterized by electrolyte imbalances
• B. It is characterized by dehydration alone
• C. It affects only glucose metabolism
• D. It does not involve fluid balance changes

Answer: (A)

Refeeding syndrome arises when nutrition is reintroduced to a malnourished person, triggering a surge of insulin that drives electrolytes like phosphate, potassium, and magnesium, as well as thiamine, into cells. This creates the hallmark electrolyte imbalances and can be accompanied by fluid shifts and edema from changes in sodium and water balance. That combination—electrolyte disturbances with accompanying fluid balance changes—is the defining feature, making the statement about electrolyte imbalances the best fit. Dehydration alone isn’t typical; fluid shifts often lead to edema. It also isn’t limited to glucose metabolism, and fluid balance changes do occur, so the other choices aren’t correct.