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Urgent Na+ estimation
Urgent treatment is required when EAH is biochemically confirmed and there are signs of hyponatremic encephalopathy
Rapid administration of iv sodium does not carry risk of osmotic demyelination known to occur when this therapy is used in chronic hyponatremia.
In the absence of a Na+ measurement hypertonic saline cannot be recommended.
EAH may be worsened by the use of 0.9% NaCl (normal saline).
If EAH suspected on clinical grounds but Na+ not available iv fluids can only be justified to treat frank hypovolaemia.Witholding iv fluids may be life saving
If EAH confirmed or suspected evacuation to definite care is priority
Contributors (September 2010):
Reference:
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