Trace element concentrations in commonly used intravenous fluids

The concentrations of several essential trace elements in various intravenous fluids commonly used in South Africa were measured. With the exception of 4% human serum albumin and fresh freeze-dried plasma (FDP), intravenous fluids contained minimal amounts of essential trace elements. Although FDP contained significant quantities of zinc, copper, iron and chromium, the common practice of giving patients on total parenteral nutrition 1-2 units per week will not fulfil the recommended daily requirements. Additional trace element supplements should therefore be given intravenously to these patients.