Electrolyte disturbances are common in critically ill patients and are associated with worse clinical outcomes. Although electrolytes are routinely monitored in intensive care units (ICUs), their exact prevalence and prognostic impact in medical ICU populations remain incompletely defined. Critically ill patients are particularly susceptible to both depletion and excess of key electrolytes, which may arise from underlying disease processes and can contribute to clinical deterioration. Multiple electrolyte abnormalities often occur simultaneously and may share a common underlying cause. While some imbalances are transient or asymptomatic, recognizing and addressing them is essential because uncorrected disturbances are more frequently observed in non-survivors than survivors. Management should prioritize identifying and correcting the underlying cause while adjusting electrolyte intake, clearance, or distribution as needed. Because ICU patients have complex and dynamic conditions, electrolyte therapy must be individualized and carefully monitored to avoid harm.

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