Complications of Overhydration in the Perioperative Period

Liberal fluid administration in the perioperative period may be associated with a number of complications.

Complications that might be associated with overhydration:

(1) pulmonary edema and/or heart failure

(2) pneumonia

(3) surgical site infection

(4) anastomotic leakage (bowel surgery)

(5) bradycardia or ventricular arrhythmia

(6) stroke

(7) sepsis

(8) bleeding

(9) cystitis

(10) longer length of stay

(11) renal complications

The diuresis that occurs when the fluid is mobilized may be associated with hospital falls.

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