falls, the decrease in the strong ion difference induces an
acidosis (low pH). Therefore, administration of sodium
chloride 0.9% can correct hypochloraemic metabolic
alkalosis and also decrease the strong ion difference and
result in hyperchloraemic metabolic acidosis.
4
This effect
has been demonstrated in animal models and perioperative patients receiving large amounts of intravenous
fluids.
5,6
However, there are no prospective data on the
influence on acid–base status when chloride is
administered in lower amounts over a 24-hour cycle. This
study aimed to test the correlation between daily
intravenous chloride load and the acid–base and
biochemical status of intensive care unit patients.