SURGICAL RISK FACTORS: FLUID-ELECTROLYTE STATUS -- IMPLEMENTING ASSESSMENT AND PREVENTION STRATEGIES TO MAINTAIN BALANCE

Course overview

During the perioperative period (i.e., the time period from patient admission immediately prior to surgery through patient discharge following surgery), maintaining proper fluid and electrolyte balance is critical because disturbances can lead to cardiovascular, neuromuscular, and neurologic complications. This continuing education module is designed to give the reader/learner an increased understanding of what is involved in assessing fluid and electrolyte balance and initiating strategies to prevent imbalances in the perioperative period. Readers may explore any or all of the topics. One contact hour of continuing education credit is available for those who successfully complete the post-test and evaluation form.