Fluid homeostasis in the neonate.

The physiology of the neonate is ideally suited to the transition to extrauterine life followed by a period of rapid growth and development. Intravenous fluids and electrolytes should be prescribed with care in the neonate. Sodium and water requirements in the first few days of life are low and should be increased after the postnatal diuresis. Expansion of the extracellular fluid volume prior to the postnatal diuresis is associated with poor outcomes, particularly in preterm infants. Newborn infants are prone to hypoglycemia and require a source of intravenous glucose if enteral feeds are withheld. Anemia is common, and untreated is associated with poor outcomes. Liberal versus restrictive transfusion practices are controversial, but liberal transfusion practices (accompanied by measures to minimize donor exposure) may be associated with improved long-term outcomes. Intravenous crystalloids are as effective as albumin to treat hypotension, and semi-synthetic colloids cannot be recommended at this time. Inotropes should be used to treat hypotension unresponsive to intravenous fluid, ideally guided by assessment of perfusion rather than blood pressure alone. Noninvasive methods of assessing cardiac output have been validated in neonates. More studies are required to guide fluid management in neonates, particularly in those with sepsis or undergoing surgery. A balanced salt solution such as Hartmann's or Plasmalyte should be used to replace losses during surgery (and blood or coagulation factors as indicated). Excessive fluid administration during surgery should be avoided.