OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to audit the real amount of crystalloid intravenous fluids infused in patients underwent major abdominal operations in a University hospital. METHODS: The whole intravenous crystalloid fluid load (CHT) infused from the 1st to the 4th postoperative day in 31 patients underwent major abdominal operations was registered. This amount was compared to the volume daily prescribed (CHP) by the physician. CHT was defined as the sum of CHP plus diluents and intravenous drugs received by the patients. Hydration protocol of the service was 30-50 mL/Kd/day for patient with nil per os prescription. Comparisons between CHT and CHP was done in each postoperative day using paired T test. A 5% level was established as significant. RESULTS: CHT summed from 1st to 4th PO days was (mean and range) 12.8 (6.4-17.5) L corresponding to 9.5 L (74.3%) of CHP and 3.3 L (25.7%) of diluents and intravenous drugs. In each postoperative day, CHT was significantly greater than CHP (p<0.001). Until the 3rd PO day patients received a CHT greater than 50 mL/Kg/day. CONCLUSION:. Medical prescription does not contain the real amount of crystalloid intravenous fluids infused. Diluents and intravenous drug may reach 25% of the intravenous fluids load.
Intravenous infusions; Perioperative care; Fluid therapy; Postoperative care
