Balanced Fluid or 0.9% Saline in Children Treated for Septic Shock.

In 30 seconds

This randomized controlled trial evaluated the effects of balanced crystalloid fluid versus 0.9% saline in 8,482 children aged 2 months to <18 years with suspected septic shock. The primary outcome, a major adverse kidney event, occurred in 3.4% of the balanced-fluid group and 3.0% of the saline group, showing no significant difference (P = 0.85).

Key findings

• 3.4% of the balanced-fluid group experienced a major adverse kidney event compared to 3.0% in the saline group.
• The median number of hospital-free days was 23 in both groups.
• Hyperchloremia occurred in 31.4% of the balanced-fluid group versus 49.0% in the saline group.

Why it matters

The findings suggest that balanced fluid and 0.9% saline have similar outcomes regarding major kidney events in pediatric septic shock, which may influence fluid resuscitation practices in emergency settings.