Fluid therapy can replace water, sodium, potassium, and chloride electrolytes, and restore hydrogen ion balance disrupted by ill health, disease, or trauma. Dehydra tion from water loss can result from systemic diseases(especially those causing polyuria, the formation and excretion of a large volume of urine), diarrhea, or excessive vomit- ing. Sodium deficiency(hypotnatremia) results from reduced sodium intake or exces- sive sodium loss through urination. Potassium deficiency(hypokalemia) results from reduced intake or excessive loss of potassium in gastrointestinal fluids or urine. Chloride loss results from increased secretion and subsequent loss of gastric juice or intestinal fluids. Excessive loss of these electrolytes disturbs the balance of hydrogen ions Fluid therapy, in addition to maintaining hydration and electrolytes, can deliver nutrients and medications.