Hypertonic saline

Hypertonic saline has a concentration of sodium and chloride greater 0. 9% and is used in states of hypovolemic shock. A very small volume of hypertonic saline administered IV to a hypovolemic patient will result in the mobilization of fluid from the cells into the extracellular fluid compartments, causing an expansion of blood volume and maintenance of blood flow to vital organs. Hypertonic saline solutions must subsequently be followed by the administration of isotonic solutions to reestablish fluid balance in intracellular and extracellular fluid locations.