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Ringer’s solution, also known as Ringer’s solution, is a preparation used in the event of disturbed acid-base balance in the human body, as well as in the case of electrolyte disturbances. Sometimes Ringer’s solution is administered with lactate; then it is talking about lactating Ringer.
Ringer’s fluid composition
A portion containing 1 liter of Ringer’s liquid contains:
- 8,6 g of sodium chloride,
- 0,3 g of potassium chloride,
- 0,33 g of calcium chloride.
The concentration of electrolytes in one liter of Ringer’s fluid is:
- sodium: 147 mmol,
- drink: 4,0 mmol,
- wapń: 2,2 mmol,
- chlorides: 156 mmol.
When is Ringer’s Fluid used?
The decision to administer Ringer’s fluid is made by the doctor; it is most often used in the following situations:
- occurrence of isotonic and hypotonic dehydration,
- increased demand for electrolytes in hypochloraemic alkalosis,
- the state of chloride deficiency,
- when a short-term filling of the vascular bed is needed,
- when it serves as a diluent for electrolyte concentrates and some medications.
Ringer’s fluid action
The electrolyte composition of Ringer’s fluid corresponds to that of the extracellular fluid. Thanks to this, Ringer’s fluid is used primarily in the treatment of electrolyte disorders and in situations of disturbed acid-base balance in the human body. Administering Ringer’s fluid restores the correct osmotic conditions in the external environment of the cells, as well as inside them. In addition, intake of Ringer’s fluid slightly increases the acidity level in the body. This is due to the high concentration of chlorides in the composition of the solution. It is also worth mentioning that Ringer’s fluid fills the interstitial space that covers almost 70% of the extracellular space in the human body. For this reason, administration of Ringer’s fluid causes a short-term hemodynamic effect.
How is Ringer’s Fluid taken?
Ringer’s fluid is administered by intravenous infusions in the form of a drip. The amount of the taken dose is determined individually by the doctor. It depends on various factors such as the patient’s health, age, weight, gender and others. In adults, it is estimated that the maximum daily dose is 40 ml per kilogram body weight. Lower doses are given for children and the elderly. Ringer’s infusion is given at a rate of about 5 ml per kilogram body weight per hour, which is equivalent to about 1,7 drops per minute.
The administration of 30 ml per kilogram of body weight satisfies the average daily fluid requirement of a human. Increased doses are used in the case of patients in the postoperative period and patients requiring specialized, intensive care. These patients show an increased need for fluids due to the decreased efficiency of their kidneys. In their case, the kidneys have a limited ability to produce concentrated urine, and thus their body produces excess metabolites and water. In addition, increased Ringer’s fluid intake is used in patients who are at risk of dehydration for other reasons, such as high fever, diarrhea, fistulas, vomiting, and more.
During the administration of Ringer’s fluid, the levels of diuresis, serum osmolarity and urine should be monitored. In addition, the amount and content of substances excreted from the body are determined.
Contraindications and side effects of taking Ringer’s fluid
Ringer’s fluid should not be administered in a situation where the body of the sick person is hyperhydrated, i.e. water poisoning occurs.
The list of contraindications to the use of Ringer’s liquid or situations where you should exercise particular caution in its application include:
- hypertonic dehydration,
- hypernatremia,
- hyperkalemia,
- kidney failure
- hiperchloremia,
- heart failure
- pulmonary oedema,
- generalized swelling,
- hypertension,
- severe kidney failure,
- eclampsia.
In addition, when administering Ringer’s fluid, there is a chance of developing hyperchloraemic symptoms. Still, the use of Ringer’s fluid is judged to be safe. It can be administered to pregnant women and during breastfeeding.
However, it is recommended that you inform your doctor about all the recently taken medications when you plan to administer Ringer’s solution. It can neutralize the effect of medicines containing phosphates, oxalates, carbonates or bicarbonates. There are safe substitutes for Ringer’s fluid, the decision to use them is made by the doctor.