Electrolyte Balance And Homeostasis

Question 1

Why is electrolyte balance important

Answer 1

Total electrolyte concentrations directly affect water balance.
The concentrations of individual electrolytes can affect cell functions.

Question 2

Cations K and Na both

Answer 2

1. Are major contributors to the osmotic concentrations of the ECF and ICF
2. Directly affect the normal functioning of all cells

Question 3

Sodium is the main cation in

Answer 3

ECF

Question 4

Over 90% of the osmotic concentration of the ECF results from

Answer 4

Sodium salts
Mainly sodium chloride
And
Sodium bicarbonate

Question 5

Electrolytes in body fluids are measured in terms of

Answer 5

Equivalents Eq

Question 6

An Equivalent is the amount

Answer 6

Of a positive or negative ion that supplies one mole of electric charge; and 1 equivalent = 1,000 milliequivalents

Question 7

1 mole of K+ and 1 mole of Cl- are each

Answer 7

1 Eq (1000mEq)

Question 8

1 mole of Ca2+ is 2Eq because

Answer 8

The calcium ion has a charge of +2

Question 9

Potassium is the main cation in

Answer 9

The ICF

Concentrations reach 160 mEq/L

Question 10

Two general rules about sodium and potassium balance

Answer 10

1. The most common problems with electrolyte balance are caused by an imbalance between gains and losses of sodium ions
2. Problems with potassium balance are less common but significantly more dangerous