IV FLUIDS

The West Bengal government suspended 12 doctors for medical negligence after expired saline administration led to a woman and her newborn's death. The Joint Platform of Doctors accused the government of ignoring fake medicines and a political conspiracy. Medical colleges and hospitals were instructed to withdraw RL saline.

Last Updated on 20th January, 2025
4 minutes, 12 seconds

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Picture Courtesy: The Hindu

Context:

The West Bengal government suspended 12 doctors for medical negligence in the case of expired saline administration that led to the death of a woman and her newborn child.

Details

The Joint Platform of Doctors claimed that the real issue of fake medicines was being ignored, accusing the government of a political conspiracy to distract the public from the core problem.

Concerns were raised about the quality of the RL saline, which was supplied by Paschim Banga Pharmaceuticals. This company had previously been flagged by the Karnataka Health Department for causing maternal deaths.

On January 14, the West Bengal government issued a notice instructing all medical colleges and hospitals to withdraw and not use any RL saline from Paschim Banga Pharmaceuticals, even if it was available in stock, due to concerns over its quality.

About Intravenous (IV) fluids

IV fluids are specially formulated liquids that are injected directly into a vein.

They are mainly used to treat or prevent dehydration.

People of all ages, whether sick, injured, dehydrated from exercise or heat, or undergoing surgery, can benefit from IV fluids.

The procedure is simple, safe, and common, with a very low risk of complications.

What do IV fluids contain?

IV fluids usually contain water, glucose (which is sugar), and electrolytes like potassium, sodium, and chloride. 

These ingredients help restore the body's fluid balance and provide energy and essential nutrients.

Sometimes, more than one type of fluid can be given at the same time through the same IV.

Main types of IV fluids

There are two main types of IV fluids: crystalloid solutions and colloid solutions.

What are crystalloid solutions?

Crystalloid solutions are the most common type of IV fluid. These fluids contain small, dissolved molecules that easily pass from the bloodstream into tissues and cells. As a result, they are readily available for the body's cells to use. Common examples include:

  • Normal saline: Salt dissolved in water.
  • D5W (Dextrose 5% in water): A solution with sugar in water.
  • Lactated Ringer's: Contains sodium, chloride, potassium, calcium, and lactate, and is often used for aggressive fluid replacement.

What are colloid solutions?

Colloid solutions contain larger molecules that cannot easily pass through cell membranes. These solutions tend to stay in the blood vessels, which means they help maintain blood volume and pressure.

They are more likely to stay within the bloodstream, unlike crystalloid solutions. Some examples are:

  • Albumin
  • Hetastarch

Why are these fluids important for patients?

IV fluids are used to treat dehydration, which can affect the body's balance of electrolytes, energy levels, and cognitive performance.

They can also treat electrolyte imbalances.

V fluids are a safe and common procedure with a low risk of complications. 

They play a vital role in maintaining cellular homeostasis in hospitalized patients.

IV fluids should be stopped when the patient can eat and drink normally.

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Source: 

The Hindu

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