ABSTRACT
Water is an essential element for all body processes. It is involved in the transportation of substances to and from the cells, the promotion of necessary chemical activity and the maintenance of a physicochemical constancy (important in normal cellular function). The influence of water in the regulation of sodium balance aids the control of blood pressure. Water and electrolyte disturbances generally occur simultaneously. However, to enable clarity of information within this particular chapter fluid and electrolytes will be discussed separately.
