RESUMEN
OBJECTIVE: 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. METHOD: 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. RESULTS: 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), pCO2 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). CONCLUSION: Intrapartum intravenous fluid containing a 5% glucose solution reduces umbilical cord acidemia and hypercarbia.