Diuresis in hemodynamically compromised patients: continuous furosemide infusion.
We have used continuous infusion of furosemide to achieve diuresis in patients who are stable but hemodynamically compromised after heart operations. With a loading dose of 20 mg and a continuous infusion of 4 to 10 mg of furosemide per hour, mean 24-hour urine output was 5.7 L (238 +/- 65 mL/h). Potassium replacement was 115 +/- 20 mmol [115 +/- 20 mEq/L]. Cardiac index, central venous pressure, and diastolic pulmonary artery pressure did not change significantly, even though hemodynamic support was decreased in each patient. Continuous furosemide infusion is a simple, effective, and reliable method to achieve diuresis in select patients.
Magovern
J A
JA
Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Allegheny General Hospital, Medical College of Pennsylvania, Pittsburgh 15212.
Magovern
G J
GJ
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D006348:Cardiac Surgical Procedures / Q000009:adverse effects*; D004334:Drug Administration Schedule; D005665:Furosemide / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D006439:Hemodynamics / Q000187:drug effects*; D006801:Humans; D007262:Infusions, Intravenous; D008875:Middle Aged; D011188:Potassium / Q000097:blood
D005665:Furosemide; D011188:Potassium