💧 Maintenance Fluids Can Harm Critically Ill Patients 🏥 

#CritBits Day 22
Key points on fluid management in hemodynamically unstable patients:
🔹 In healthy individuals: Only 25% of crystalloid fluids stay intravascular
🔹 In critically ill patients: As low as 5% remains intravascular
🔹 Excess interstitial fluid = increased organ edema and mortality risk
🚨 Important takeaways:
1. Hold maintenance fluids in unstable patients
2. Use boluses for volume resuscitation
3. Assess fluid responsiveness before administration (ultrasound, passive leg raise, etc.)
What's your approach to maintenance fluids in critical care? Let's discuss!
#CriticalCare #FluidManagement #MedicalEducation #ICU #emergencymedicine #shock #resuscitation