Fluid therapy in children is an essential aspect of managing critically ill individuals, and appropriate fluid therapy can be lifesaving. The primary goal of resuscitation fluids is to establish hemodynamic stability, ensuring adequate intravascular volume and tissue perfusion. Maintenance fluids, on the other hand, are administered to achieve proper hydration and maintain electrolyte balance.

Oral fluid replacement is always a safe and preferred mode. The indications of IV fluid therapy include correcting or maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance in conditions such as shock, severe dehydration, uncontrolled vomiting or diarrhea, inability to drink, paralytic ileus leading to abdominal distension, impaired sensorium, and other serious complications.

Goals: IV fluid replacement aims can be broadly categorized into three groups: Resuscitation, maintenance, and replacement [1]. Distinguishing these reasons is crucial because the choice of fluids, their composition, volume, and administration rates vary depending on the patient's clinical status and specific indications. It's essential to select the appropriate IV fluids tailored to each situation.

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