NS vs D5NS vs Ringer's Lactate

[rajrajiv]

I have experienced NS and D5NS. D5NS pulls fluids from the body and the sac grows to good size after the infusion.
I do not have any experience with Ringer's Lactate, how does it work? is it hypotonic or hypertonic to body fluid concentration? will it also increase the size after the infusion??

[BorisTheOdd]

Lactated Ringers is an isotonic solution like saline. If I recall correctly it has a variety of electrolytes that are similar to what your blood typically caries so can induce less side effects than saline when used to treat dehydration.
It might absorb into the body quicker than normal saline, it might prevent lightheadedness some often get from large infusions.
I have seen some people on this forum advice others to avoid lactated ringers, and some swear by the stuff. I'm inclined to think it's probably pointless to go out of your way to use lactated ringers, but it's likely safe to use as an alternative to saline.

[dc9by7]

I prefer dextrose w lactated ringers.
You get the effect of normal saline with the sting.
I experience only a slight sting as I start the lactated ringer bag.

[rajrajiv]

Thanks for the reply, I guess I will stick to NS only.