Which intravenous fluid is commonly used for maintenance in neonates?

Dextrose 10% in water (D10W) is commonly used for maintenance fluid therapy in neonates because it provides a source of both hydration and calories, which are crucial for this population. Neonates have specific nutritional needs as they are rapidly growing and have limited glycogen stores. D10W delivers necessary dextrose to help maintain blood glucose levels while also offering sterile water to ensure adequate hydration.

In contrast, sodium chloride 0.9% (normal saline) is isotonic and primarily provides sodium and chloride without any caloric content, making it less suitable as a maintenance fluid alone for neonates. Lactated Ringer’s solution, while it provides electrolytes and is often used in larger children and adults for rehydration and maintenance, is also not typically the first choice for maintenance in this age group due to its complex electrolyte composition which may not align with the more straightforward nutritional requirements of neonates. Normal saline, like sodium chloride, lacks the caloric component essential for maintaining energy balance in neonates, making D10W the more appropriate option.