Chloride-rich fluids

The study cannot fully separate chloride or sodium toxicity from illness severity, fluid volume, or the reasons for greater saline exposure. Rapid infusion of large saline volumes can raise chloride levels and may contribute to several adverse physiological effects. The study notes that chloride-rich fluids can cause iatrogenic hyperchloraemia, particularly with large short-term saline exposure. Normal saline is widely used in critically ill patients as a resuscitation fluid, maintenance fluid, and drug solvent. The findings support caution with chloride-rich solutions and consideration of balanced or non-chloride-based fluids when appropriate.