How we use ultrasound to support clinical decisions on fluid administration in critical ill patients

Abstract

Intravenous fluid administration is a common critical care intervention and fluids should be treated as drugs with specific indications [1]. Traditionally, fluid therapy focussed mainly on increasing cardiac output. However, fluid administration can have harmful consequences, such as pulmonary or visceral interstitial oedema, which worsens organ dysfunction. In this context, critical care ultrasound (CCUS) helps to assess potential risks and benefits of fluid administration. We describe our use of CCUS to support clinical decisions regarding fluid administration, focussing primarily on the optimization and stabilisation phase of the critically ill patient.