Pathophysiology of Volume Administration in Septic Shock and the Role of the Clinical Pharmacist

Abstract

Objective: To review physiological rationale and evidence base surrounding fluid harm to prepare the clinical pharmacist for accountability regarding volume-related outcomes. Data Sources: A PubMed/MEDLINE search was conducted using the following terms: (fluid therapy) AND [(critical care) OR (sepsis)] from 1966 to August 2019 published in English. Study Selection and Data Extraction: A total of 3364 citations were reviewed with only relevant clinical data extracted. Data Synthesis: Although early fluid resuscitation may be a necessary component to decrease mortality in the majority of patients with septic shock admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU), the benefit of continued administration after the first 24 hours is uncertain. Paradoxically, a positive fluid balance secondary to intravenous fluid receipt has been associated with diverse and perpetuating detriment on a multitude of organ systems after the first 24 hours of ICU stay. Continued clinical harm has been demonstrated on patient outcomes such as rates of mortality and length of stay. Despite the growing body of evidence supporting the potential adverse aspects of positive fluid balance, fluid overload remains common during critical care admission. Conclusion: Physiological concerns to overly zealous fluid administration and subsequent volume overload are vast. Relevance to Patient Care and Clinical Practice: Optimization of fluid balance in critically ill patients with sepsis is primed for clinical pharmacy intervention. Critical care pharmacists have the potential to improve patient care by optimizing fluid pharmacotherapy while potentially reducing adverse events, days on mechanical ventilation, and length of ICU stay.