Are there any potential complications associated with IV fluids?
Edema (swelling) may occur when IV fluids are given. Edema is very common in the ICU and does not usually harm the patient. Edema goes away quickly in some patients and very slowly in others. Occasionally electrolyte imbalance occurs when patients are receiving IV fluids. Various types of intravenous (IV) fluids are shown. Some IV fluids are in plastic bags and some are in glass bottles. The rate of IV fluid administration is controlled by the infusion pumps shown toward the bottom of the picture.