Fluid and electrolyte concerns in intestinal surgical procedures.

All surgical patients are at risk for fluid and electrolyte imbalances. This risk increases when a patient undergoes intestinal surgery, because of the role of the gastrointestinal system in providing the body with water and electrolytes. Therefore, throughout the perioperative period the nurse acts to prevent such disturbances. The nurse who is aware of preoperative factors that contribute to fluid and electrolyte imbalances, including pre-existing patient factors, iatrogenic causes, and the body's response to stress, can help prevent disastrous intraoperative events. Furthermore, postoperative patient assessment can prevent complications such as fluid overload and potassium and sodium imbalances.