Patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) are particularly vulnerable to adverse effects of fluid overload. Plasma volume status (PVS), defined as the percentage deviation from ideal plasma volume, has emerged as a rapid, noninvasive method to assess volume status and prognosis:1

According to this recent study from Johns Hopkins University Medical Center: “We demonstrate that elevated PVS is associated with greater risk of mortality and fewer ICU- and ventilator-free days even after adjustment for age, sex, and degree of critical illness. Plasma volume status could be considered for risk-stratification and to direct therapy, particularly fluid management.” 1

Plasma Volume Now Available On A Blood Gas Analyzer

Nova’s Prime Plus blood gas analyzer automatically calculates patient plasma volume with the Strauss formula, which uses measured hemoglobin and measured hematocrit to calculate ePV (estimated plasma volume). Prime Plus reports ePV as part of a comprehensive panel including tests for kidney function, electrolytes, metabolites, gases, and acid/base.

1. Metkus TS et al. Calculated Plasma Volume Status Is Associated with Mortality in Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome. Crit Care Explorations 2021; 3(9).