IV Solution Cheat Sheet
IV solutions are used to restore fluid balance in patients when water is lost. Fluid loss may cause electrolyte imbalances, stress on the body systems, and impaired cognitive function. IV solutions differ in composition, osmolality. and in use. It is important for all nurses to understand fluids, their properties and proper use and side effects of administration. Print and use this resource as a quick reference guide!
Please note: These lists are for reference and educational use only. Pedagogy does not recommend the use of any product or product manufacturer.
Please note: These lists are for reference and educational use only. Pedagogy does not recommend the use of any product or product manufacturer.
IV Solution Cheat Sheet
| Type | Description | Osmolality | Use | Misc. |
| Saline (NS) | 0.9% NaCl in water crystalloid solution |
Isotonic (308 mOsm) |
Increases circulating plasma volume when red cells are adequate | Replaces losses without altering fluids concentrations Helpful for Na+ replacement |
| ½ Normal Saline ( ½ NS) |
0.45% NaCl in water crystalloid solution | Hypotonic (154 mOsm) |
Raises total fluid volume | Useful for daily maintenance of body fluid, but is of less value for replacement of NaCl deficit Helpful for establishing renal function Fluid replacement for clients who don’t need extra glucose (diabetics) |
| Lactated Ringer’s (LR) | Normal saline with electrolytes and buffer | Isotonic (275 mOsm) |
Replaces fluid buffers pH | Normal saline with K+, Ca++, and lactate (buffer) Often seen with surgery |
| D5W | Dextrose 5% in water crystalloid solution | Isotonic (in the bag) *Physiologically hypotonic (260 mOsm) |
Raises total fluid volume. Helpful in rehydrating and excretory purposes | Provides 170–200 calories / 1,000cc for energy Physiologically hypotonic – the dextrose is metabolized quickly so that only water remains – a hypotonic fluid |
| D5NS | Dextrose 5% in 0.9% saline | Hypertonic (560 mOsm) |
Replaces fluid sodium, chloride, and calories | Watch for fluid volume overload |
| D5 ½ NS | Dextrose 5% in 0.45% saline | Hypertonic (406 mOsm) |
Useful for daily maintenance of body fluids and nutrition, and for rehydration | Most common postoperative fluid |
| D5LR | Dextrose 5% in Lactated Ringer’s | Hypertonic (575 mOsm) |
Same as LR plus provides about 180 calories per 1000cc’s | Watch for fluid volume overload |
| Normosol-R | Normosol | Isotonic (295 mOsm) |
Replaces fluid and buffers pH | pH 7.4 Contains sodium, chloride, calcium, potassium and magnesium Common fluid for OR and PACU |