Fluid and Electrolytes in Practice.

Abstract

This is a very general and broad approach to the problems of fluid and electrolyte balance as applied to a wide variety of clinical conditions. The introductory chapters represent a lucid description of the fundamental physical-chemical principles which must be understood before careful consideration can be given the practical aspects of fluid and mineral balance in medical and surgical cases. Considerable discussion is devoted to the physiology of fluid shifts between the various body compartments and the results of these shifts on the concentration of the principle electrolytes—sodium, potassium, and chloride ions. Particular emphasis is placed on the effects of various types of dehydration on the distribution of fluid and electrolytes within the body. After development of these clinical-physiological principles, attention is given to their relationship to the regulation of acid-base balance. A discussion of the etiology and differentiation of the various types of disturbances in acid-base balance is also