Diagnosis and management of sodium disorders in critically ill patients

Sodium disorders are common findings in critically ill patients.Sodium disorders are associated with an increased risk of poor prognosis and mortality.Changes of plasma osmolality plays a critical role in the pathophysiology and treatment of sodium disorders.Patients′ volume status should be assessed for diagnostic approach of hyponatremia and hypernatremia.The etiology and pathophysiology of sodium disorders are various and complex.High detail requirements are essential for clinical management.Improper disposal can cause irreversible damage on the nervous system.Careful assessment and close clinical monitoring are the key to successful treatment. Key words: Sodium disorder; Hyponatremia; Hypernatremia; Plasma osmolality; Volume status; Critical Care