IV FLUIDS

1. First 24 hours of life - D10W (D5W in infants <1000 gm).

2. Addition of electrolytes may be considered after 24-48 hours and there is adequate urine output (50% intake):

3. Usual maintenance solution for infants with normal hydration and electrolyte balance at 48-72 hours of age is: 1/4N.S. + 20mEq KCl/liter

4. Serum electrolytes should be monitored at least daily in infants whose IV fluid intake exceeds 40% of total intake.

5. Do not add Ca gluconate routinely to UAC and UVC infusions until TPN started.

HEPARIN IN IV FLUIDS

FLUID CALCULATION

For mechanically ventilated infants, use the birth weight for the first 4-7 days of life until weight loss has stabilized; then use daily weight. Indicate on the order sheet what weight is being used to calculate fluids and medications. During rounds and sign-outs, it should be made clear what weight is being used for calculations.

FLUID GUIDELINES

 Day 1

 60-70 cc/kg IV  Maximum 75 cc/kg IV + PO
 Day 2  RDS 60-70 cc/kg IV  Maximum 80 cc/kg IV + PO
 Day 3  RDS 80 cc/kg IV  Maximum 90 cc/kg IV + PO
 Day 4  RDS 80-100 cc/kg IV  Maximum 100 cc/kg IV + PO
 Day 5  RDS 100 cc/kg IV  Maximum 120 cc/kg IV + PO
 Day 6-7  RDS 120 cc/kg IV  Maximum 120 cc/kg IV + PO

EXCEPTIONS

  1. Note: For extreme prematurity daily fluid volumes are much higher due to insensible losses
  2. >7 days - advancement is individualized
  3. Birth asphyxia and/or suspected cerebral edema - insensible H2O loss 40-50 cc/kg/d.
  4. Phototherapy - evaluate hydration status q8-12h by weight and/or BUN, and serum electrolytes. May increase fluids by 10%, or more as needed.
  5. Ventilator - evaluate hydration status q8-12h. May increase or decrease fluid intake to accommodate for fluctuations in fluid balance.
  6. Chronic lung disease (BPD) - no greater than 150 cc/kg if O2 dependent + diuretics.
  7. Note: cc/kg/day may not reflect an infant's fluid intake or requirements. Serum Na, BUN, weight, and total intake and output may be more useful in adjusting fluid requirements than calculated cc/kg/day.


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