Fluid and electrolyte management of very low birth weight infants

Abstract

Recent advances in medical knowledge and technology have markedly improved the survival rates of very low birth weight infants. Optimizing the neuro-developmental outcomes of these survivors has become an important priority in neonatal care, which includes appropriate management for achieving fluid and electrolyte balance. This review focuses on the principles of providing maintenance fluid to these infants, including careful assessment to avoid excessive fluid administration that may increase the risk of such neonatal morbidities as necrotizing enterocolitis, patent ductus arteriosus, and bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). The review also describes the principles of fluid and electrolyte management of infants with BPD, which includes the strategy of providing adequate nutrition to promote normal growth.