Ann Afr Med. 2025 Nov 28. doi: 10.4103/aam.aam_414_25. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Isotonic fluids like 0.9% normal saline (NS) are recommended for maintenance intravenous fluid (mIVF) therapy in children. However, concerns exist regarding hyperchloremia and its associated complications, particularly in younger children.
OBJECTIVE: The objective of the study was to evaluate the clinical and metabolic effects of 0.9% NS as mIVF in noncritically ill pediatric patients.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: This longitudinal study included 80 children aged 1 month to 13 years admitted to a tertiary care center, who received 0.9% NS as mIVF for at least 50% of a 24-h period. Baseline and 48-h clinical and biochemical parameters were recorded and compared.
RESULTS: After 48 h, there was a significant decrease in heart rate, respiratory rate, blood urea, and serum creatinine, and a significant increase in blood pressure, serum sodium, potassium, and chloride (P < 0.05). Hyperchloremia was observed in 7.5% of children, all aged <5 years.
CONCLUSION: 0.9% NS may lead to significant clinical and metabolic changes, particularly hyperchloremia in younger children.
PMID:41313674 | DOI:10.4103/aam.aam_414_25
