When to administer Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and when not to?

Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: April 24, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

From the Research

DNS should be administered with caution, considering the patient's fluid status and electrolyte balance, as excessive fluid administration can lead to morbidity and mortality, as highlighted in the study by 1. When deciding whether to administer DNS, it is crucial to assess the patient's individual needs, taking into account their clinical condition, weight, and laboratory values. The following factors should be considered:

  • Fluid replacement and glucose supplementation needs
  • Presence of fluid overload conditions, such as congestive heart failure, severe renal impairment, or hyponatremia
  • Risk of hyperglycemia and its potential exacerbation by additional glucose
  • The patient's overall clinical condition and potential for complications

According to the study by 2, understanding body fluid balance and dehydration is essential in providing appropriate intravenous fluid therapy. The study by 1 emphasizes the importance of avoiding excessive fluid administration, which can lead to iatrogenic submersion and increased morbidity and mortality. The infusion rate of DNS should be adjusted based on the patient's clinical condition, weight, and laboratory values, typically ranging from 100-125 mL/hour for maintenance to higher rates for replacement therapy. It is also important to consider alternative fluid management strategies, such as the use of hypertonic saline solutions or isotonic crystalloids, as discussed in the study by 3. Ultimately, the decision to administer DNS should be made on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the patient's unique needs and potential risks, as emphasized by the studies by 4 and 5.

References

Research

Do not drown the patient: appropriate fluid management in critical illness.

The American journal of emergency medicine, 2015

Research

Understanding body fluid balance, dehydration and intravenous fluid therapy.

Emergency nurse : the journal of the RCN Accident and Emergency Nursing Association, 2025

Research

Fluid management in patients with traumatic brain injury.

New horizons (Baltimore, Md.), 1995

Research

Diagnosis and treatment of hypernatremia.

Best practice & research. Clinical endocrinology & metabolism, 2016

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.