HARD DECISIONS IN INTENSIVE CARE UNIT

Intensivecareunitkapak

FLUID-ELECTROLYTE BALANCE

Dilek Kuzukıran Kocataş

Ankara City Hospital, Department of Intensive Care, Ankara, Türkiye

Kuzukıran Kocataş D. Fluid-Electrolyte Balance. In: Turan S, editor. Hard Decisions in Intensive Care Unit. 1st ed. Ankara: Türkiye Klinikleri; 2025. p.265-277.

ABSTRACT

The management of fluid and electrolyte balance necessitates a profound understanding of the distribution of body fluids-one of the fundamental dynamics of life-and the metabolism of water and electrolytes. The human body is built upon a balanced system of fluids, encompassing compartments such as cells and interstitial spaces. These fluids not only provide an optimal environment for cellular function but also facilitate the transport of oxygen and nutrients. The maintenance of vital functions is inherently dependent on the homeostasis of these fluids in terms of volume, concentration, and composition.

Sodium imbalances are often attributed to excessive retention or loss of water, while excessive sodium intake or loss is rarely the primary cause. In the management of electrolyte disturbances such as hyperkalemia, addressing life-threatening symptoms takes precedence. Fluid therapy for critically ill patients is guided by evidence derived from randomized controlled trials. This therapy assumes particular significance in the context of surgical procedures-preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative periods-as well as in response to stressors such as trauma and infection.

In conclusion, a thorough understanding of fundamental concepts, including the physiology of body fluids, alterations in electrolyte composition, and resuscitative fluid options, plays a pivotal role in the management of fluid and electrolyte balance. Such knowledge establishes a robust foundation for comprehending and managing common fluid and electrolyte disturbances, thereby optimizing patient care.

Keywords: Electrolytes; Hyopnatraemia; Hyperkalaemia; Fluid therapy; Water balance

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