Bolus
Formal Definition
A large volume of IV fluid or medication given rapidly.
How It's Used on the Ward
"Give a bolus" or "bolus them" - usually means a rapid fluid infusion.
Example
""Patient is hypotensive and tachycardic. Let's bolus with a liter of LR and reassess in 30 minutes.""
Clinical Context
Typical NS or LR bolus is 500mL-1L. In sepsis, the initial bolus is 30mL/kg. Know the difference between a bolus and a maintenance drip.
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