Tag: Crystalloids

Intravenous (IV) fluid administration is one of the most common hospital interventions, with some studies indicating that approximately 90% of hospitalized patients receive some form of IV therapy [1.8.1]. A key component of this is knowing when would you give a fluid bolus to rapidly restore volume and perfusion.

In the United States, a study of patients with ANCA-associated vasculitis and severe kidney issues found that about 20% received plasmapheresis [1.8.3]. A key question in this procedure is: what is the best replacement fluid for plasmapheresis?

Despite its vital role in treating various conditions, the use of donor plasma carries logistical challenges and risks like disease transmission, prompting a long-standing search for safe and reliable alternatives to plasma. These alternatives range from simple saline solutions for volume expansion to highly specific recombinant proteins for correcting clotting factor deficiencies.

Burn shock, a critical complication of severe burns, was once a major cause of death, but modern fluid resuscitation has dramatically improved survival rates. This is precisely **why we give crystalloids in burns**, as they are the cornerstone of initial fluid replacement therapy, counteracting the profound physiological disruption caused by severe thermal injury.

Burn injuries trigger a massive inflammatory response that causes fluid to shift from the intravascular space into the tissues, leading to severe fluid loss. Knowing what type of fluid is used for burns is a critical component of emergency medical treatment to prevent hypovolemic shock, organ failure, and other severe complications. The choice of fluid depends on the severity and extent of the burn, as well as the patient's age and overall condition.