(BAXTER) Sodium Chloride 0.9% w/v (Viaflo Bag) Intravenous Infusion

What is (BAXTER) Sodium Chloride 0.9% w/v (Viaflo Bag)

(BAXTER) Sodium Chloride 0.9% w/v (Viaflo Bag) is a sterile, non-pyrogenic intravenous infusion solution commonly referred to as "normal saline." It contains 0.9% sodium chloride (NaCl) dissolved in water and is used for fluid and electrolyte replenishment in clinical settings. This isotonic solution closely resembles the osmolarity of body fluids, making it suitable for rapid volume restoration and dilution of medications for IV administration.

• Formulation: Each 100 ml of the solution contains 0.9 grams of sodium chloride.
• Packaging: Supplied in Viaflo flexible plastic bags, available in 500 ml size (20 bags per pack).
• Therapeutic use: Volume expansion, hydration, electrolyte balance, and medication dilution.
• Administration: Intravenous infusion under medical supervision.
• Clinical settings: Hospitals, emergency care, operating rooms, intensive care units.

This product is part of Baxter’s Viaflo line, which ensures high-quality infusion delivery with minimal contamination risk. It is compatible with many commonly used IV drugs and can be co-administered with other fluids when medically appropriate.

How to use (BAXTER) Sodium Chloride 0.9% w/v (Viaflo Bag)

Administration of (BAXTER) Sodium Chloride 0.9% w/v should be performed only by trained healthcare professionals in a clinical setting. The solution is administered via intravenous infusion using sterile techniques.

• Inspect the bag: Ensure the Viaflo bag is intact and the solution is clear, colorless, and free from particles. Do not use if the bag is damaged or discolored.
• Preparation: Remove the bag from the overwrap. Do not add any medication unless compatibility has been confirmed. Aseptic techniques must be used to connect the bag to the IV administration set.
• Infusion rate: Depends on the clinical condition, age, weight, and fluid/electrolyte requirements of the patient. A doctor will determine the appropriate flow rate.
• Drug dilution: Can be used to dilute compatible medications before intravenous administration. Always consult compatibility charts and perform mixing under sterile conditions.
• Monitoring: Monitor the patient’s vital signs, fluid balance, serum electrolytes, and overall clinical response during and after administration.

Once opened and connected to the IV line, the solution should be used immediately to minimize the risk of contamination. Any unused portion should be discarded safely in accordance with hospital protocols.

Mode of Action (BAXTER) Sodium Chloride 0.9% w/v (Viaflo Bag)

(BAXTER) Sodium Chloride 0.9% w/v acts primarily by replenishing extracellular fluid volume and correcting electrolyte imbalances, particularly sodium and chloride ions.

• Osmotic balance: The isotonic nature of the solution maintains osmotic equilibrium between intracellular and extracellular compartments, preventing fluid shifts that could lead to cellular dehydration or swelling.
• Plasma volume expansion: The sodium chloride solution increases intravascular volume, improving blood pressure and tissue perfusion in hypovolemic patients.
• Sodium function: Sodium is essential for nerve impulse transmission, muscle contraction, and kidney function. It helps regulate acid-base balance and maintains cellular homeostasis.
• Chloride function: Chloride ions assist in maintaining acid-base equilibrium and osmotic pressure. It also plays a role in gastric acid production (HCl).

In essence, this solution functions by mimicking the ionic composition of plasma, thereby stabilizing electrolyte levels and supporting circulatory and metabolic functions. It does not exert pharmacologic effects but provides essential physiological support.

(BAXTER) Sodium Chloride 0.9% w/v (Viaflo Bag) Interactions (BAXTER) Sodium Chloride 0.9% w/v (Viaflo Bag)

Although (BAXTER) Sodium Chloride 0.9% w/v is generally well-tolerated, its use with certain drugs or in specific clinical scenarios may require caution.

• Corticosteroids and mineralocorticoids: May increase sodium and fluid retention, potentially worsening edema or hypertension.
• Diuretics: Concurrent use may lead to altered sodium and fluid balance. Monitor closely to avoid dehydration or electrolyte disturbances.
• Potassium-sparing agents (e.g., spironolactone): Monitor potassium and sodium levels to avoid imbalances.
• Drugs requiring dilution: Ensure drug compatibility before mixing with sodium chloride solution. Incompatible medications may precipitate or lose potency.
• Antihypertensives: Volume expansion from saline infusion may reduce the efficacy of antihypertensive drugs.
• Lithium: Sodium levels affect lithium excretion. Sodium supplementation can decrease lithium levels; monitor serum lithium closely if co-administered.

Always check compatibility charts before mixing medications with saline. Consider patient-specific conditions like cardiac, renal, or hepatic impairment when using IV fluids.

Dosage of (BAXTER) Sodium Chloride 0.9% w/v (Viaflo Bag)

The dosage of (BAXTER) Sodium Chloride 0.9% w/v depends on several clinical factors including patient age, body weight, fluid and electrolyte requirements, and underlying medical conditions.

• Adults: Typically, 500 ml to 3 liters per day depending on hydration needs. In cases of acute dehydration or blood loss, larger volumes may be administered under strict supervision.
• Children: Doses are calculated based on body weight (e.g., 20–100 ml/kg/day) and adjusted according to clinical response and laboratory parameters.
• Geriatric population: Dosing should be cautious to avoid fluid overload, especially in patients with cardiac or renal conditions.
• Drug dilution: When used as a vehicle for IV medication, follow specific dilution guidelines provided by the medication manufacturer.

Infusion rates vary depending on clinical urgency. For maintenance, a slow and steady infusion is common, whereas for rapid volume replacement, faster rates may be necessary. Close monitoring of vital signs, fluid status, and electrolytes is essential to ensure patient safety.

Possible side effects of (BAXTER) Sodium Chloride 0.9% w/v (Viaflo Bag)

While (BAXTER) Sodium Chloride 0.9% w/v is generally safe, adverse reactions may occur, especially if administered in excess or too rapidly.

• Common side effects:
  • Injection site pain or irritation
  • Mild swelling at infusion site
• Systemic effects (usually dose-related):
  • Hypernatremia (high sodium levels)
  • Fluid overload or edema
  • Hypertension (due to fluid retention)
  • Metabolic acidosis (with prolonged high-volume use)
• Severe or rare reactions:
  • Pulmonary edema (especially in heart failure patients)
  • Congestive heart failure exacerbation
  • Electrolyte imbalance complications (confusion, seizures)

Patients with compromised renal, cardiac, or hepatic function are at higher risk for complications and require close monitoring. Immediate medical attention is required if signs of fluid overload, shortness of breath, or altered mental status occur.

(BAXTER) Sodium Chloride 0.9% w/v (Viaflo Bag) Contraindications (BAXTER) Sodium Chloride 0.9% w/v (Viaflo Bag)

While widely used, (BAXTER) Sodium Chloride 0.9% w/v has specific contraindications where its use may be harmful.

• Hypernatremia: Patients with already elevated sodium levels should avoid saline infusions unless closely monitored.
• Fluid retention states: Conditions such as congestive heart failure, severe renal impairment, or liver cirrhosis can be worsened by excess fluid administration.
• Uncontrolled hypertension: Volume expansion can exacerbate high blood pressure.
• Pulmonary edema: Contraindicated due to risk of worsening lung fluid accumulation.

Relative contraindications include situations where careful monitoring is essential, such as in the elderly or in those receiving corticosteroids or drugs affecting fluid-electrolyte balance. Each patient’s condition must be thoroughly evaluated before prescribing or administering this IV fluid.

Storage of (BAXTER) Sodium Chloride 0.9% w/v (Viaflo Bag)

Proper storage of (BAXTER) Sodium Chloride 0.9% w/v is crucial to maintain its sterility, stability, and safety.

• Temperature: Store between 15°C and 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Avoid extreme heat or freezing temperatures.
• Light protection: No special light protection is necessary; however, avoid direct sunlight for prolonged periods.
• Packaging: Keep the solution in the original Viaflo overwrap until use to maintain sterility and protect from contamination.
• Shelf life: Check the product label for the expiry date. Do not use after the expiration date.
• Handling: Do not use if the bag is damaged, leaking, or if the solution is cloudy or discolored.

Once the bag is opened or punctured, the solution should be used immediately to prevent microbial contamination. Discard any unused portion following proper hospital or pharmacy waste protocols.