Maintenance intravenous fluids in pediatrics : survey in Belgium about daily practice

Abstract: Objective Prescribing intravenous maintenance fluids is daily practice for many pediatricians. In 2018, the American Association of Pediatrics published the first evidence-based clinical practice guideline on this topic, but many pediatricians have not incorporated it into their clinical practice. To pursue safety in prescribing intravenous maintenance fluids, a standardization of care is wise. We aim to describe the current practice in Belgium to evaluate the need for further local guidelines. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional electronic survey of pediatricians currently workin... Mehr ...

Verfasser: Blits, Milou
Boiy, Tine
Duval, Els
Van Hoeck, Koenraad
Dokumenttyp: Artikel
Erscheinungsdatum: 2024
Schlagwörter: Human medicine
Sprache: Englisch
Permalink: https://search.fid-benelux.de/Record/base-28956850
Datenquelle: BASE; Originalkatalog
Powered By: BASE
Link(s) : https://hdl.handle.net/10067/2072410151162165141

Abstract: Objective Prescribing intravenous maintenance fluids is daily practice for many pediatricians. In 2018, the American Association of Pediatrics published the first evidence-based clinical practice guideline on this topic, but many pediatricians have not incorporated it into their clinical practice. To pursue safety in prescribing intravenous maintenance fluids, a standardization of care is wise. We aim to describe the current practice in Belgium to evaluate the need for further local guidelines. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional electronic survey of pediatricians currently working in a Belgian pediatric ward. The survey consisted of general questions about prescribing habits and questions about two specific cases. Results 122 respondents completed the survey. There is a wide variation in baseline checks before starting fluids, and electrolyte monitoring during maintenance intravenous fluid administrations is not regularly performed in 43%. The Holiday and Segar formula, used by 102 respondents, remains the most popular method of calculating the rate, although many respondents use different methods depending on the case. The type of solution used is also very variable with 18 different fluids mentioned, much depending on the case. Conclusion A great variety in type and rate exists in the prescription of intravenous fluids as well as differences in monitoring. Our results show that pediatricians tailor IV fluids to each case and deviate from their own protocol in many cases. While a strict protocol may prove difficult, a guidance through the important considerations and current literature may well be a valuable addition to promote safety in prescribing intravenous maintenance fluids.