Crystalloids

General information

Potassium and sodium salts are given intravenously in solutions to replace body fluids and electrolytes. Adverse reactions are rare and usually limited to the effects of overtransfusion.

Microwave heating of crystalloid fluids has been recommended as a method of correcting hypothermia during resuscitation. Severe full-thickness burns and venous thrombosis occurred after infusion of over-heated crystalloid fluid in the management of a ruptured aortic aneurysm in a 75-year-old man [ ]. Measuring the temperature of the fluid before starting the infusion is necessary to avoid this complication.

Organs and systems