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Basic Concepts of Fluid and Electrolyte Therapy

Basic Concepts of Fluid and Electrolyte Therapy

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Conditions commonly associated with acid-base disorders include:<br />

vomiting/diarrhoea<br />

shock<br />

cardiogenic<br />

septic<br />

hypovolaemic<br />

acute kidney injury<br />

respiratory failure<br />

altered neurological status<br />

coma<br />

seizures<br />

decompensated diabetes<br />

hypo- or hyperkalaemia<br />

potassium metabolism is intimately linked with acid-base<br />

balance<br />

prolonged <strong>and</strong> excessive infusions <strong>of</strong> saline<br />

If an acid-base disturbance is suspected from clinical features the following<br />

investigations should be performed initially:<br />

Urea, creatinine <strong>and</strong> electrolytes<br />

Bicarbonate<br />

Chloride<br />

Arterial blood gases (including lactate)<br />

Step-by-step pathway to identify underlying cause<br />

pH to determine whether acidaemia or alkalaemia<br />

change in bicarbonate <strong>and</strong> base excess = metabolic process<br />

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