fluid creep
Excessive fluid administration during burn resuscitation, leading to complications from fluid overload.
Full Definition
Fluid creep refers to the administration of excessive intravenous fluids during burn resuscitation, typically exceeding calculated requirements by significant amounts. This phenomenon can occur when healthcare providers increase fluid rates in response to inadequate urine output without considering other factors affecting renal function. Fluid creep leads to complications including compartment syndromes, pulmonary edema, cerebral edema, and delayed wound healing. Prevention requires strict adherence to resuscitation formulas with appropriate monitoring endpoints.
Usage
Usage note: Informal but widely accepted term in burn literature; may require explanation in formal documentation.
In Context
- "The patient developed abdominal compartment syndrome secondary to fluid creep during the initial resuscitation." — Complication note
- "Hourly urine output monitoring helps prevent fluid creep by ensuring appropriate resuscitation endpoints." — Clinical protocol