What it means
In IV orders and on fluid bags, NS means salineSAY-leenA solution of salt (sodium chloride) in water, used for IV fluids, flushes, wound cleaning and other care.Full entry , salt water with the same concentration of particles as blood (isotonic). It is used to replace fluid, to flush IV lines, to give with blood and to dilute many drugs. Half-normal saline (0.45%) is written as ½NS. In other notes the same letters can stand for other things, so the setting matters.
For the nurse
Check the exact solution and rate on the order and the bag. Only normal saline is hung with blood products. Watch clients with heart or kidney failure for fluid overload during large volumes.
In a chart
"NS infusing at 125 mL/hr via left forearm IV; site without redness or swelling."
Related terms
infusion
The slow delivery of a fluid or drug into the body, usually into a vein, over a period of time.
saline
A solution of salt (sodium chloride) in water, used for IV fluids, flushes, wound cleaning and other care.
sodium chloride
Salt: a compound of sodium and chloride, used in IV fluids, flushes, tablets and rinses.