IV Fluid Composition Flashcards
What is the composition of 5% dextrose solution?
5% dextrose solution contains dextrose (the D-isomer of glucose) and water.
Why is 5% dextrose solution not suitable for fluid resuscitation?
Only 7% of 5% dextrose stays in the intravascular space, making it unsuitable for resuscitation.
What is the main advantage of using 5% dextrose?
It maintains hydration without administering excess electrolytes and can be supplemented with potassium if needed.
Does 5% dextrose provide significant calorific or nutritional value?
No, the energy produced is negligible and should not be considered for nutritional purposes.
What is the composition of Normal Saline (0.9% sodium chloride)?
Normal Saline is an isotonic solution containing Na+, Cl-, and water.
In what scenarios is Normal Saline commonly used?
It is used for both resuscitation and maintenance fluid regimes.
Why should Normal Saline not be used as a lone fluid maintenance solution?
Excessive saline can lead to hyperchloraemic acidosis.
What is Hartmann’s solution composed of?
Hartmann’s solution contains Na+, Cl-, K+, HCO3– (as lactate), Ca2+, and water.
Why is Hartmann’s solution considered more physiological than Normal Saline?
It contains electrolytes in concentrations similar to plasma and generates alkalising bicarbonate ions.
Can Hartmann’s solution be used in patients with severe acidosis?
Yes, it generates bicarbonate ions and can help reduce the risk of acidosis.
Why should lactate levels be used with caution in patients receiving Hartmann’s solution?
The lactate in Hartmann’s solution can interfere with lactate measurements used to monitor lactic acidosis.
What are colloids?
Colloids are solutions containing proteins with large molecular weights designed to maintain plasma oncotic pressure.
Why are colloids rarely used in routine surgical practice?
Clinical trials have shown limited benefit in resuscitation and a small risk of anaphylaxis.
What is Human Albumin Solution (HAS) used for?
HAS is used in patients with insufficient protein production, such as those with decompensating liver disease, to temporarily increase plasma oncotic pressure.
Why do colloids not provide a significant advantage over crystalloids in resuscitation?
In critically ill patients, endothelial junctions may lose integrity, causing colloid proteins to leak into the interstitial space.
