SODIUM CHLORIDE

Adults and Children The rate of administration and volume infused will depend upon the requirements of the individual patient and the judgement of the physician. Elderly Care should be taken to avoid circulatory overload, particularly in patients with cardiac and renal insufficiency

Thrombosis of the chosen vein is always a possibility with intravenous infusion. If infusion is protracted then another vein should be selected after 12 - 24 hours.

9% Intravenous Infusion is not suitable for protracted use unless there is heavy continued loss of electrolytes; even then it should be used with care . Saline solutions should not be administered rapidly or for prolonged periods particularly in infants and the elderly.

In potassium deficient patients administration of normal saline will increase potassium loss, so that if it is given, potassium supplements should also be given.

The label states:

Do not use unless solution is clear and free from particles. Do not use unless solution is clear and free from particles. Keep medicines out of the reach of children.

3. Contra-indications Patients with sodium overload. It is well known that this may occur with myocardial and renal damage, but it should also be appreciated that in the first five or six days after surgery or severe trauma, there may be an inability to excrete unwanted sodium.