Hypertonic Saline Solution Guidelines

Introduction to Hypertonic Saline Solution

• The solución salina hipertónica al 3% contains 513 mEq/L of sodium according to the physicochemical properties of hypertonic solutions 1

Calculation and Administration

• To calculate the volume of hypertonic saline solution needed, the formula is: Volume (L) = Amount of sodium required (mEq) ÷ Concentration of sodium (mEq/L), for a patient of 80 kg, the volume needed is 778 ml 1
• The infusion rate should be controlled to avoid rapid changes in serum osmolality, with a maximum change of 3 mOsm/kg/h in serum osmolality 1
• For continuous infusions, a rate of 0.5-1 mEq/L/h should be maintained for sodium correction 1

Monitoring and Contraindications

• Serum sodium should be measured within 6 hours after administration, and no additional doses should be given if serum sodium is ≥155 mmol/L 1
• Patients with renal or cardiac compromise should be frequently evaluated for cardiac, renal, and mental status 1

Efficacy and Safety

• Hypertonic saline solution is effective in reducing intracranial pressure (Grade A) 1
• There is no demonstrated benefit in survival with the use of hypertonic saline solution in elevated intracranial pressure states (Grade A) 1