Why is Saline (IV Fluids) Given? Let's Talk About This Simply

We've all heard people say, "I need to give you saline," "I need to give you glucose," when someone is sick, has vomiting or diarrhea, or after a major operation. Some people even say it gives you energy. So what exactly are these fluids that are given to the body through a vein, or what they call IV fluids in medical terms? Why are they given? Is it safe? Today, we'll talk about all of this very simply, in a way that you can understand.

Why do we need IV Fluids (salines)?

Simply put, IV fluids are needed when the amount of water in our body becomes dangerously low, that is, when we become dehydrated . Think of it like the engine of a car. Just as an engine needs water and oil to run properly, water is essential for every cell and organ in our body to function properly. In fact, 60% of our body is made up of water. So when this amount of water decreases, the functioning of the entire body can be impaired.

Normally, you can meet this water requirement by drinking water by mouth. However, sometimes the body becomes too weak to take in fluids by mouth, or the amount of fluid excreted from the body is much greater than the amount taken in by mouth. In such cases, this fluid has to be given directly into the blood through a vein.

What are these situations?

• Illnesses: If you are vomiting a lot or have diarrhea , a large amount of fluid is lost from your body. At times like these, even if you drink water through your mouth, it may not stay in your body and come out again.
• Exercise and extreme heat: When you sweat a lot after playing in the sun or working hard, your body loses water and salts. If you don't drink enough water during that time, you can become dehydrated.
• Major injuries or burns: A serious accident, injury, or skin burn can cause a large amount of fluid to be lost from the body quickly.
• Surgery: Before and after major surgery, IV fluids are given to maintain the body's fluid levels because you are under anesthesia and may not be able to eat or drink.

What problems arise when the body loses water (dehydration)?

Dehydration doesn't just mean you're thirsty. It can affect many things in our body.

• Mineral imbalance: Minerals called electrolytes, such as sodium and potassium, are essential for the proper functioning of our body's nerves and muscles. These become unbalanced during dehydration.
• Mental function: Water is also very important for brain function. When there is not enough water , it becomes difficult to concentrate and thinking ability decreases.
• Loss of energy: feeling lethargic, tiredFeeling tired is a key symptom of dehydration.
• Digestive system: Water is essential for the digestive process, as well as for the excretion of feces and urine.
• Headaches: Dehydration can contribute to frequent headaches and their intensity.
• Effects on internal organs: The function of major organs, especially the kidneys, heart, and brain, can be severely affected.
• Skin health: The skin becomes dry and wrinkled.

Are there types of IV fluids?

Yes, even though they say "saline," there are actually several types of IV fluids. Your doctor will decide which type you need, depending on your condition. There are two main types.

1. Crystalloid solutions: These are the most commonly used type of IV fluids. They contain very small particles dissolved in water. These particles can easily pass through the bloodstream into the body's tissues and cells.

• Normal Saline: This is what we simply call "salt water." It is made by dissolving sodium chloride (salt) in water.
• D5W (Dextrose in water): This is what is called "glucose" or "sugar water". It is made by dissolving dextrose, a type of sugar, in water.
• Lactated Ringer's: This solution contains sodium, chloride, potassium, calcium, and lactate. It is used to quickly replace large amounts of fluid lost from the body.

2. Colloids: These contain relatively large particles. These particles cannot easily pass through cell walls. Therefore, they remain inside the blood vessels for a long time. Examples include albumin and hetastarch .

What are the steps in giving an IV saline?

When you need to give IV fluid, a doctor or nurse will follow these steps. Knowing this will help you avoid unnecessary fear.

1. First, the doctor will consider many things, such as your weight, age, and medical condition, to determine the type of IV fluid you need, the amount to be given, and how quickly it should be given.

2. Next, a nurse will select a good vein in your arm (often on the inside of your elbow or on the upper arm).

3. The selected area is thoroughly cleaned with a disinfectant solution.

4. Then, a tourniquet, like an elastic band, is placed around the upper arm and tightened slightly. This will make the veins stand out clearly.

5. Then, a sterilized needle is carefully inserted into the vein. You may feel a slight stinging sensation at this point. A small plastic tube (cannula) attached to the needle is left in the vein and the needle is removed.

6. Remove the tourniquet and confirm that the cannula is fully inserted into the vein.

7. Secure the cannula to your arm with a plaster bandage to prevent it from moving.

8. Then a long tube is connected to the cannula, and the other end of the tube is connected to the IV fluid bag.

9. The IV fluid bag is hung on a high stand, sometimes through a pumping machine, which allows the fluid to flow into your body at a set rate.

10. The nurses come regularly to check if it is working properly and if you are having any discomfort.

What are the benefits and the very rare risks of this?

Giving IV fluids is a very simple and safe procedure that is widely used around the world. It can help you recover quickly and sometimes even save a life.

However, as with any medical treatment, there are some very rare complications that can occur. It's good to be aware of these, but don't be unnecessarily afraid of them.

What should I tell the doctor or nurse during the saline infusion?

If you experience any discomfort while taking a saline solution, you should report it immediately. This can prevent it from becoming a bigger problem.

• If the rate of fluid flow in the saline bag feels too slow or too fast .
• If the area where the cannula was inserted is painful, swollen, red, or feels burning .
• If the cannula feels loose .
• If you suddenly get a headache or difficulty breathing .

If you feel anything like this, don't be afraid to talk to a nurse or doctor there. It's very important for your safety.