Fluids, Electrolytes, and Nutrition

Abstract

Changes in fluid volume, electrolyte composition, and nutritional needs can occur pre-operatively, intraoperatively, and post-operatively, as well as in response to more acute events such as trauma or sepsis. Maintaining cellular homeostasis, proper cardiovascular perfusion, and immune function through appropriate management of fluids, electrolytes, and nutrition is critical in caring for the surgical patient. As a result, understanding the normal anatomy and physiology of fluid compartments and electrolyte composition is key to selecting the most appropriate therapy for the patient. Common causes, signs, symptoms, and laboratory evaluations of pathologic shifts in fluids, electrolytes, and nutrition will be reviewed, followed by treatment options. Nutritional risk assessment and stratification tools are reviewed, and consideration is given to the pros and cons of enteral and parenteral nutrition.