3-5. ELECTROLYTE REPLACEMENT SOLUTIONS

a. Use. Electrolyte replacement solutions provide both electrolytes (like sodium, potassium, and so forth) and fluid to the patient. Special electrolyte replacement solutions can be prepared in order to meet the needs of particular patients.

b. Examples of Electrolyte Replacement Solutions. Below are two of the solutions commonly used to replace electrolytes.

(1) Lactated Ringer's solution (LR, Ringer's lactate, RL, Hartmann's solution). This product is a solution of electrolytes in water. This product contains sodium, potassium, calcium, chloride, and lactate ions. The lactate ion in the product has an alkalizing effect. The lactate ion is metabolized in the liver to glycogen and ends up as carbon dioxide and water. Lactated Ringer's solution is used as a fluid replacement and as an electrolyte replacement. Lactated Ringer’s is the preferred solution for heat injuries.

(2) Lactated Ringer's solution with five percent dextrose. This product is a combination of lactated Ringer's solution and five percent dextrose (D5RL) solution. The dextrose supplies 170 calories per 1,000 milliliters of solution. Lactated Ringer's solution with five percent dextrose is used as a fluid replacement, electrolyte replacement, and as a source of energy.

NOTE: Other combination products are available.