Understanding IV Fluid Composition and Benefits of Lactated Ringers

Proper knowledge of fluid composition is vital in medical practice. Intravenous fluid bags cannot contain bicarb directly as it corrodes them. Hence, bicarb equivalents are used, making lactated Ringers a bicarbonate substitute. Lactated Ringers contains lactate as a buffering base, and potassium which may concern some, but it's actually beneficial due to its balanced pH and added electrolytes. The concern about administering LR to patients with high lactate levels due to hypoperfusion is unfounded as LR provides multiple advantages.