Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 15, 2026

A Novel Approach for the Administration of Medications and Fluids in Emergency Scenarios and Settings
Published on: November 9, 2016
100 cc 3% sodium chloride bolus: a novel treatment for hyponatremic encephalopathy
Michael L Moritz1, Juan Carlos Ayus
1Division of Nephrology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC, The University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, One Children's Hospital Drive, 4401 Penn Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA. moritzml@upmc.edu
Abstract:
Hyponatremic encephalopathy is a potentially lethal condition with numerous reports of death or permanent neurological injury. The optimal treatment for hyponatremic encephalopathy remains controversial. We have introduced a unified approach to the treatment of hyponatremic encephalopathy which uses 3% NaCl (513 mEq/L) bolus therapy. Any patient with suspected hyponatremic encephalopathy should receive a 2 cc/kg bolus of 3% NaCl with a maximum of 100 cc, which could be repeated 1-2 times if symptoms persist. The approach results in a controlled and immediate rise in serum sodium with little risk of inadvertent overcorrection.
Related Concept Videos
Cerebral Edema l: Introduction
Nephrotic Syndrome III : Nursing Management
Diabetes Insipidus I: Introduction
Tonicity in Animals
Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic State
Pharmaceutical Poisoning: Treatment Strategies

