Abstract
OBJECTIVE
To determine the frequency of pregame intravenous fluid hyperhydration (PIVFH) usage, administration protocols, indications, complications, and perceived efficacy by National Collegiate Athletic Association Football Bowl Subdivision (NCAA-FBS) teams.
DESIGN
Cross-sectional survey study.
SETTING
National Collegiate Athletic Association Football Bowl Subdivision.
PARTICIPANTS
Head athletic trainers from NCAA-FBS institutions.
INTERVENTION
Voluntary, anonymous 15-item validated online survey instrument.
MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES
Number of teams reporting use of PIVFH.
RESULTS
The survey response rate was 64% (77 of 120). Thirty percent of respondents reported the utilization of PIVFH, administered to an average of 2 to 3 players. The most common reasons cited for using PIVFH were to prevent muscle cramps (95%), heat illness (79%), and dehydration (68%). Additionally, 47% of programs used PIVFH to improve player exercise tolerance and 47% per player request. Twenty-four percent of programs that used PIVFH reported the occurrence of associated complications. Only 15% of respondents believed that PIVFH improved their teams' overall performance.
CONCLUSIONS
PIVFH is a common practice among NCAA-FBS teams. PIVFH is used most often to prevent muscle cramps, dehydration, and heat illness. The relatively few numbers of players per team who receive PIVFH suggest that higher risk individuals were targeted for administration.
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