From the Research
To prepare 1/2 Normal Saline (0.45% NaCl) with sodium bicarbonate, first gather 0.45% sodium chloride solution and sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) in the required concentration, typically adding 50 mEq (one 50 mL ampule of 8.4% sodium bicarbonate) to 1 liter of 0.45% sodium chloride solution, as supported by the most recent and highest quality study available 1.
Preparation Steps
- Ensure both solutions are sterile before mixing.
- Add the sodium bicarbonate to the 1/2 NS bag using aseptic technique.
- Gently mix the solution by inverting the bag several times.
- Label it appropriately with the final concentration, date, time of preparation, and your initials. This mixture combines the moderate sodium content of half-normal saline (77 mEq/L of sodium) with the alkalinizing properties of sodium bicarbonate, making it useful for treating mild metabolic acidosis while providing hydration, as seen in studies comparing hydration methods 2, 1.
Key Considerations
- The solution should be used within 24 hours of preparation to ensure stability and sterility.
- Always verify the compatibility of these solutions and check institutional protocols before preparation, as specific concentrations may vary based on clinical needs.
- The use of sodium bicarbonate in hydration solutions has been shown to have benefits in certain clinical scenarios, such as preventing contrast-induced nephropathy 1, although its effectiveness can vary depending on the context and comparison to other hydration methods 3.