Goal Directed Fluid Resuscitation: A Review of Hemodynamic, Metabolic, and Monitoring Based Goals

Aggressive intravenous fluid (IVF) resuscitation has been a mainstay of therapy for critically ill patients with hypotension and hypoperfusion. Recent evidence has emerged suggesting that overzealous fluid resuscitation may be associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Goal directed fluid therapies aim to exploit metabolic, hemodynamic, and monitor based parameters that may predict a response to fluid administration. The goal is to improve patient outcome by identifying patients who will benefit from IVF while avoiding excessive fluid administration to those who will not benefit.