Intravenous fluids

‘Smart’ IV pumps could save hundreds of lives each year, say pharmacy researchers

In a study of two large NHS trusts that used smart intravenous pumps, researchers found the devices may have averted 110 deaths in a year.…

Intravenous fluids: principles of treatment

Intravenous fluid therapy can be used to replace large fluid losses or to maintain fluid status when oral intake is insufficient; appropriate prescribing requires an understanding of basic fluid physiology.…

Intravenous fluids: practical aspects of therapy

Although intravenous fluids are commonly prescribed for patients in hospital, they are often overlooked by pharmacists conducting a clinical review. This article provides some tips for reviewing fluid orders.…

Intravenous fluid therapy — what pharmacists need to monitor

Intravenous fluid therapy is complex. This article outlines key concepts about the therapy and situations in which it is used. It also describes how pharmacists can conduct treatment reviews and offers case examples showing what problems might occur.…

Intravenous fluid therapy — background and principles

Pharmacists often challenge doctors on their prescribing of drugs, but fewer pharmacists challenge the prescribing of IV fluids. This article describes when and how IV fluids should be used, and which fluids are available.…