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  • Subcutaneous and intravenous infusions were similarly well accepted, safe, and feasible in older patients with dehydration

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Therapeutics
Subcutaneous and intravenous infusions were similarly well accepted, safe, and feasible in older patients with dehydration

https://doi.org/10.1136/ebm.8.5.151

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    (2003) J Am Geriatr Soc 51, 155. Slesak G, Schnürle JW, Kinzel E, et al.. Comparison of subcutaneous and intravenous rehydration in geriatric patients: a randomized trial.. ;. :. –60.
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 QUESTION: In older patients with mild to moderate dehydration, how do subcutaneous (SC) and intravenous (IV) infusions compare for acceptance, feasibility, and adverse effects?

    Design

    Randomised {allocation concealed}†,* unblinded*, trial with median 6 days duration of fluid use.

    Setting

    Geriatric wards of a hospital in Tübingen, Germany.

    Patients

    96 patients who were ≥ 60 years of age (mean age 85 y, 70% women), had mild to moderate dehydration, and needed parenteral fluids. Exclusion criteria included infectious and allergic skin diseases, generalised oedema, acute myocardial infarction, manifest or imminent shock, IV drug requirement, and total parenteral nutrition. Follow up was 92%.

    Intervention

    Patients were allocated to receive SC (n=48) or IV (n=48) infusions of half normal saline glucose solutions (containing glucose 5% and half isotonic electrolytes). The amount and duration of fluid therapy depended on …

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