Which treatment is essential for addressing metabolic acidosis in critically ill patients?

Addressing metabolic acidosis in critically ill patients requires identifying and treating the underlying causes, such as infection, which plays a significant role in metabolic derangements. Isolation and management of infection sources are crucial because infections can increase lactate production and contribute to metabolic acidosis. By resolving the infection, not only can the immediate cause of the acidosis be addressed, but it also helps in restoring overall metabolic balance and ensuring proper cellular function.

While options like increased fluid intake may be beneficial for hydration and maintaining hemodynamic stability, they do not directly address the causes or effects of metabolic acidosis. Enhanced nutrition is important for recovery and metabolic support but is not an immediate treatment for acidosis. Immediate blood transfusion may be necessary in cases of significant hemorrhage or anemia, but it does not specifically target the metabolic acidosis unless the acidosis is due to inadequate oxygen delivery from anemia. Thus, the essential treatment for metabolic acidosis in critically ill patients is to isolate and treat infection sources.