Chap 32- ELectrolytes Flashcards
chemical compounds that carry electrical charges
electrolytes
positively charged ions
cations
negatively charged ions
anions
What causes fluid imbalances/ deficit?
Fluid loss from
Physical activity
Profuse sweating
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Poor Nutrition
Malabsorption
Diuretics
Electrolytes are expressed as
milliequivalents per liter (mEq/L)
Can you inject Potassium into a vein/ IV push? Y or N
No, Potassium is ALWAYS diluted
Functions of electrolytes
-Promote neuromuscular conduction
-Maintain body fluid volume/ osmolality (fluid balance)
-Distribute water between compartments
-Regulate pH/acid balance
refers to the fluid’s effect on cell size
tonicity
A solution with a LOWER SOULTE CONCENTRATION than the blood plasma, causing water to FLOW INTO a cell and causing it to SWELL; free water
HYPOTONIsolution should be given slowly
Ex: given to Hyperglycemic pts
0.45 Normal Saline
0.25 Normal Saline
solution where there is no net water movement, so there is no change in the size of the cell.
isotonic solution
no shrinking or swelling
A solution with a higher concentration of solute than the blood plasma; Pulls fluid out of cell, causing cell to SHRINK
Hypertonic Solution- Given Slowly
3 % Normal Saline
D5 Half Normal Saline
Type of solution that is closest to ECF
isotonic
Ex: Normal Saline 0.9 %
Lactate Ringers (has electrolytes)
D-5 Water (given to supply water)
Why are isotonic solutions given?
Replaces fluid in vascular space/ expands volume in intravascular
Risks of given too much isotonic solution
Fluid overload
Hypertension due to Sodium content
a method of feeding that delivers nutrients directly into a vein, bypassing the digestive system; must be delivered through central line
TPN
Total Parental Nutrition
