Fluid, Electrolyte, and Acid-Base Disorders in the Surgery Patient

Summary

Abnormalities of fluid balance, electrolyte imbalance, and acid-base status are very common in surgical patients. While one must address acute, life-threatening abnormalities expeditiously, a systematic approach to evaluating each patient should be a routine component of surgical care. Addressing fluid, electrolyte, and acid-base status is part of the care plan for every patient. The surgeon should anticipate clinical conditions that can present with or eventuate in such abnormalities.