The Use of Potassium Chloride and Saline Solution

Potassium chloride is a natural compound found in the mineral sylvite, foods and seawater. It is necessary for various body functions, especially for the proper functioning of the heart. Potassium chloride is used in the prevention or treatment of low blood levels of potassium. A saline solution normally means a solution of salt (e.g., sodium chloride) and water. It is mainly used to restore lost fluid in the body cells.

Normal Saline Solution

• A normal saline solution is 0.9 percent sodium chloride in water and is called a physiological solution. Sodium chloride is essential to life on Earth. The body’s fluid level is an important component of keeping the body in good condition. Sodium ion concentrations play an important role in maintaining the volume of the body’s fluid at proper levels.

General Applications

• The major use of potassium chloride is in the manufacture of fertilizers. It is also used in the manufacture of potassium metal and potassium hydroxide. The other uses of potassium chloride are in medicine, food processing, scientific application and in lethal injections in judicial executions. As sodium-free substitute for sodium chloride or common salt, potassium chloride is used. Even in household water softener units, it works as an alternative to sodium chloride.

Other Applications

• Potassium chloride was once a favorite fire extinguisher. It was particularly suitable for extinguishing surrounding fire. The salt, potassium chloride, is essential to many human body functions such as for the heart, muscles and nerves. It is sometimes used as a food additive, such as supplementary foods for dietary use. Doctors recommend potassium chloride supplements for patients lacking potassium.

Saline Uses

• Saline solution is the most crucial fluid replacement therapy used to prevent or treat dehydration, abnormal depletion of body fluids. It is also given intravenously to prevent hypovolemic shock, an emergency medical condition in which rapid fluid loss makes the heart unable to supply enough blood. It is also used for treating dry or irritated nasal passages occurring due to allergens, colds, low humidity or nasal decongestants.

Medicinal Applications

• Saline solution is mixed with dextrose or glucose to make up the rapid loss of body fluid (dehydration). Saline solution is sometimes used as nasal drops. The proper application is to lie down and tilt back the head, using a dropper . Precautions are necessary when using saline solution because it can adversely interact with certain medical conditions. If a patient is pregnant, planning to become pregnant or lactating, taking dietary supplement, or allergic to medicines or other substances, it is better to refrain from using saline solution.