ABSTRACT
Intravenous fluids support the cardiovascular system and allow the provision of electrolytes. Fluids can be subcategorized into crystalloids and colloids. Colloids consist of water to which a substance of high molecular weight is added. Historically, colloids have been the initial fluid of choice for patients with sepsis. However, evidence suggests that crystalloids are the more favourable fluid in this context. Crystalloid fluids consist of water with the addition of solutes such as glucose and sodium chloride. They provide the mainstay of intravascular fluid therapy and are the most frequently used on general hospital wards. Maintenance fluid is delivered to patients who are either nil by mouth or unable to take sufficient fluid orally for whatever reason. Maintenance fluid aims to provide the patient’s daily requirement of water and electrolytes. Patients with low blood pressure or oliguria are usually considered for a fluid challenge.
