Fluid balance

Question 1

3 ways to assess fluid balance?

Answer 1

Fluid input/Urine output
Measure weight (gain/loss –> not practical most of time)
Urea + Electrolytes

Question 2

Indications to give Potassium?

Answer 2

Hypokalaemia
Vomiting (loss of H+ stimulates loss of K+, loss of volume stimulates RAAS)
Not feeding well
DKA (to replace lost potassium)

Question 3

When do you give bolus and how much?

Answer 3

10% or more dehydration

DKA/Trauma –> Give 10ml/kg (to prevent cerebral oedema and prevent destruction of clot preventing bleeding respectively)
All others give –> Give 20ml/kg