Abstract
To compare the effects of an intrapartum infusion of a lactated Ringer solution or a glucose-boosted saline solution on the acid–base status of umbilical arterial blood.
In a prospective clinical trial 178 women in labor were randomized to receive intravenously either a lactated Ringer solution or a saline solution boosted with 5% glucose. Umbilical arterial blood was then assessed for acid–base status.
There were significant differences between the lactated Ringer group and the glucose group in umbilical artery pH values (7.25
±
0.07 vs. 7.28
±0.06;
P
=
0.008),
pCO
2 values (44.8
±
5.6 mm Hg vs. 41.6
±
4.1 mm Hg;
P
=
0.001), and base excess (−
7.3
±
2.1 mEq/L vs. −
6.6
±
1.8 mEq/L;
P
=
0.02).
Intrapartum intravenous fluid containing a 5% glucose solution reduces umbilical cord acidemia and hypercarbia.