Intravenous fluid therapy in adults in hospital

Recommendation ID: CG174/1
Question: Assessment and monitoring:- What is the incidence of complications during, and as a consequence of, IV fluid therapy?
Any explanatory notes (if applicable): Why this is important:- This is almost certainly under-reported in the ward setting with significant implications for patients, predominantly morbidity through to mortality. It is probable that complications of fluid therapy are frequent and may be associated with increased clinical needs, such as critical care and, on occasion, may necessitate fluid resuscitation. Lack of a set of clearly defined features of the complications of fluid mismanagement compounds the problem. It is important to define these features and then undertake an observational study in a hospital setting to determine the epidemiology of these complications. Such a study would highlight the prevalence of fluid related complications and inform the development of preventive measures.

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Is this a recommendation for the use of a technology only in the context of research?	No
Is it a recommendation that suggests collection of data or the establishment of a register?	No
Last Reviewed	19/12/2013