BMJ : British medical journal
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To determine the effect on mortality of rescuscitation with colloid solutions compared with resuscitation with crystalloids. ⋯ This systematic review does not support the continued use of colloids for volume replacement in critically ill patients.
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To evaluate the effect of heparin on duration of catheter patency and on prevention of complications associated with use of peripheral venous and arterial catheters. ⋯ Use of intermittent heparin flushes at doses of 10 U/ml in peripheral venous catheters locked between use had no benefit over normal saline flush. Infusion of low dose heparin through a peripheral arterial catheter prolonged the duration of patency but further study is needed to establish its benefit for peripheral venous catheters.