Is there a medical reason for why saline contains salt as opposed to just being completely fresh or sterile water?
Thanks for your help!
2006-09-08 04:25:36 · 4 answers · asked by sebastians_gec 1 in Health ➔ Other - Health
Normal saline or 0.9 % saline solution contains 0.9% sodium chloride or "salt" which is equal to the amount of sodium found in the human body, therefore when given IV it is more compatible with the system than sterile water.
2006-09-08 04:31:12 · answer #1 · answered by Tulip 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
sa·line (sln, -ln)
ADJECTIVE:
Of, relating to, or containing salt; salty.
Of or relating to chemical salts.
NOUN:
A salt of magnesium or of the alkalis, used in medicine as a cathartic.
A saline solution, especially one that is isotonic with blood and is used in medicine and surgery.
Your BODY contains salt (so so do your tears etc) - so the saline solution works best within or for your system.
2006-09-08 11:32:48 · answer #2 · answered by DrJunk 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Nearly every fluid in the body contains salt at a concentration of 350-360 mg/100 ml.
2006-09-08 11:45:03 · answer #3 · answered by JOHN M 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Saline is(by definition)sodium chloride(salt) in sterile water.If you are told to use saline rather than water then there must be a reason.
2006-09-08 11:31:44 · answer #4 · answered by Mod M 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋