IBCC Episode 25 - Hypernatremia

In this co-hosted podcast episode of "The Internet Book of Critical Care Podcast," Josh and Adam delve into hypernatremia, emphasizing its significance in the ICU setting. They discuss common causes such as inadequate free water intake, GI losses, renal water loss, and sodium poisoning, along with evaluation methods focusing on patient history and physical examination rather than extensive lab work. The hosts cover treatment strategies, including addressing specific causes like diabetes insipidus with DDAVP or vasopressin, and stress the importance of calculating and actively managing free water deficits. They also address nuanced cases such as hypernatremia with oliguria, and the specific considerations for elderly patients, advocating for a balanced approach to correction while considering palliative care in end-of-life situations.