Fluid therapy (contd.)

FLUID THERAPY 

Rates and administration

  • The rate of replacement of fluids should parallel the severity of dehydration. Fluids should be administered rapidly at first followed by decreasing rates.
  • Most commonly it is agreed that 15 ml / kg / hr is a reasonable rate. In severely dehydrated cases this can go up to 50 ml / kg /hr. Higher rates can overload the system and may even cause overhydration.

Route of administration

  • The route depends on the type of illness, severity, degree of dehydration, patient condition, time and equipment available.
  • The most common and overlooked one is the oral or nasogastric. It is the least dangerous, without strict asepsis.
  • Per rectal administration can also be considered. It may be difficult to retain the fluid especially in the presence of gastrointestinal disease.
  • The IV route is the most versatile. It is indicated for emergencies, severe cases. It has the advantage of large volume of administration. But maintenance of indwelling catheter, clotting and hematoma and location of vein are some of the drawbacks.
  • The SC route is handy in cases of small animals where larger volumes need to be give but it is difficult to locate the vein. It is irritating and can be painful.Fluid absorption is more slow.
  • IP route also suffers form the drawback of easy predisposition to peritonitis.
Last modified: Wednesday, 25 April 2012, 12:30 PM