Crystalloid Fluids in Intensive Care Unit

Abstract

Crystalloid fluids are often used to treat patients in the early stages of shock with true or relative hypovolemia. Nevertheless, their infusion could be associated with side effects. Indeed, 0.9% saline includes a high concentration of chloride ion sometimes responsible for hyperchloremic acidosis. Its clinical impact is uncertain but could be responsible for organ dysfunction, mainly renal and coagulopathy, could induce a rise in inflammatory process and thus could worsen morbidity and mortality. The addition of an organic anion in balanced solutions allows a reduced chloride concentration which, according to Stewart theory, limits the occurrence of hyperchloremic acidosis.