adverse reactions
ADVERSE REACTIONS Excessive amounts of sodium chloride may cause hypernatraemia, hypokalaemia and acidosis. Proper use of normal saline as a vehicle for parenteral drugs or as an electrolyte replacement therapy is unlikely to result in adverse effects. Hypernatraemia rarely occurs with therapeutic doses of sodium chloride, but may occur in excessive administration. A serious complication of this is dehydration of the brain causing somnolence and confusion, which may progress to convulsions, coma and ultimately respiratory failure and death. Pulmonary embolism or pneumonia may also result. Other symptoms include thirst, reduced salivation and lacrimation, fever, tachycardia, hypertension, headache, dizziness, restlessness, weakness and irritability. Infusion of excess sodium chloride 0.9% solution may cause fluid overload or electrolyte imbalance. Intravenous administration of solutions may cause local reactions including pain, vein irritation and thrombophlebitis. Extravasation of solution may cause tissue injury. If any adverse effects are observed during administration, discontinue infusion, evaluate the patient and institute appropriate supportive treatment. Displaced catheters or drainage tubes can lead to irrigation or infiltration of unintended structures or cavities. Excessive volume or pressure during irrigation of closed cavities may result in distension or disruption of tissues. Inadvertent contamination from careless technique may transmit infection. Adverse effects resulting from irrigation of body cavities, tissues or indwelling catheters and tubes are usually avoidable when appropriate procedures are followed.