Management of Fluid and Electrolyte problems in Children

The body content of sodium determines the ECF volume, as Na⁺ and its accompanying anions account for 90% of the ECF osmoles. As a result, the kidney, through its ability to control the excretion of sodium, is responsible for maintaining ECF volume.

To maintain the body sodium content there must be a balance between intake and excretion of sodium. This is achieved through:

1. monitoring of effective arterial volume

2. signalling to the kidney

3. control of sodium excretion

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