Drugs for electrolyte imbalances

Question 1

What are electrolytes?

Answer 1

+/- charged inorganic molecules.

Question 2

Why do we need electrolytes?

Answer 2

Nerve conduction, membrane permeability.

Water balance, other critical body functions.

Sodium, Potassium, Calcium, Chloride

Question 3

What is the normal range for sodium(Na+)?

Answer 3

135mEq/L-145mEq/L

Question 4

When sodium is out of range what concerns arise?

Answer 4

Neuro/Seizures

Hypernatremia: Water loss/ sodium gain (Hyper Na+) <145
Tx: Diuretics

Hyponatremia: Water gain or Sodium loss (Hypo Na+) >135
Tx: sodium chloride

Question 5

What is the normal range for Potassium (K+)?

Answer 5

3.5mEq/L-5.0mEq/L

Question 6

Nursing considerations for potassium:

Answer 6

Check K+ levels prior to giving.

PO- give with food to reduce GI upset.

IV- severe hypokalemia- can burn, give slowly.

NEVER IV PUSH!!!!!!

Question 7

What helps treat hyperkalemia?

Answer 7

sodium zirconium cyclosilicate (Lokelma)

Question 8

What is the MOA of sodium zirconium cyclosilicate (Lokelma)

Answer 8

1.Reduces serum potassium ions. 2.Exchanges hydrogen and sodium ions for potassium in the intestines.

Question 8

Nursing considerations for sodium zirconium cyclosilicate:

Answer 8

PO- powdered mix with water.

Take 2hr before or after other meds.

Question 9

What is the normal range for Calcium (Ca)?

Answer 9

8.5mEq/L-10.5mEq/L

Question 10

What problems can arise when calcium is out of range?

Answer 10

Bone/abdominal pain, muscle problems, N/T

Hypercalcemia (Hyper Ca+)
Tx: fluids- find underlying cause- over 10.5

Hypocalcemia (Hypo Ca+)
Tx: need to replace calcium- under 8.5