Fluid therapy and the resuscitation of traumatic shock

Fluid management of the traumatized patient begins with assessment of volume status via palpation of pulses; evaluation of mental status; and measurement of urine output, arterial blood pressure, and central pressures. Intravascular line placement and choice of initial resuscitation fluids should be individualized to the clinical situation, although in most situations a crystalloid solution continues to be the initial fluid of choice. Following initial stabilization, the intravenous fluid administered can be tailored to a given situation, chosen only after the deranged fluid balance is sequentially classified according to alterations of volume, concentration, and composition. Parenteral fluids may be divided into two groups: crystalloids and colloids. The indications, complications, and controversies surrounding various resuscitation modalities have been reviewed.