When determining electrolyte amounts, consider the normal maintenance requirements (see table below), as well as any pre-existing abnormalities. Also consider other sources (IV and medication) of sodium, potassium and magnesium. Next determine if there is a need for acetate. It is usually added to the TPN to counteract metabolic acidosis. It can be used to balance the electrolytes by reducing the NaCl, K phosphate or KCl. Finally, remember the sum of Ca (mEq/L) and P (mmol/L) in the TPN bag may not exceed 30 in order to prevent precipitation of the solution. Premie/ Newborn Infant 0-10 kg Child 11-30 kg Adult Sodium mEq/kg/day 3-5 3-4 3-4 60-150 mEq total Potassium mEq/kg/day 2-3 1-3 1-3 60-150 mEq total Calcium mEq/kg/day 1 0.5-1 0.5-1 10-15 mEq total Phosphorus mmol/kg/day 1-2 1-1.5 1-1.5 20-45 mmoles total Magnesium mEq/kg/day 0.6 0.25-0.6 0.25-0.6 10-20 mEq total Acetate mEq/kg/day 80-120 mEq total Chloride mEq/kg/day 2-3 150-180 mEq total Return to Top of Page