Normal Saline CPG

Question 1

Normal Saline - Presentation

Answer 1

10 mL polyamp

500 mL and 1000 mL infusion soft pack

Question 2

Normal Saline - Pharmacology

Answer 2

An isotonic crystalloid solution

Composition:

Electrolytes (sodium and chloride in a similar concentration to that of extracellular fluid)

Action:

• Increases the volume of the intravascular compartment

Question 3

Normal Sline - Metabolism

Answer 3

Electrolytes:

• Excreted by the kidneys

Water:

• Excreted by the kidneys
• Distributed throughout total body water, mainly in the extracellular fluid compartment

Question 4

Normal Saline - Primary emergency indication

Answer 4

1. As a fluid replacement in volume depleted patients
2. Cardiac arrest secondary to hypovolaemia or where the Pt might be fluid responsive
3. To expand intravascular volume in the non-cardiac, non-hypovolaemic hypotensive Pt e.g. anaphylaxis, burns. sepsis
4. As a fluid challenge in unresponsive, non-hypovolaemic, hypotensive patients (other than LVF). e.g. asthma
5. Fluid for diluting and administering IV drugs
6. Fluid TKVO for IV administration of emergency drugs

Question 5

Normal Saline - Contraindications

Answer 5

1. Nil of Significance in the above indication

Question 6

Normal Saline - Precautions

Answer 6

1. Consider modifying factors when administering for hypovolaemia

Question 7

Normal Saline - Route of administration

Answer 7

IV

IO

Question 8

Normal Saline - Side effects

Answer 8

Nil of significance in the above indication

Question 9

Normal Saline - Special notes

Answer 9

IV half life:

Approximately 30 - 60min