ELECTROLYTE DISORDERS-HYPERNATREMIA

Question 1

Sodium concentration greater than

Answer 1

145 mEq/L.

Question 2

typically, hypovolemic due to

Answer 2

free water losses

Question 3

(c) Rarely, excessive sodium intake may cause hypernatremia

Answer 3

NOT A FLASHCARD, JUST ANOTHER BULLET

Question 4

the primary defense against

hypernatremia

Answer 4

intact thirst mechanism and access to water

Question 5

Signs and symptoms

Dehydration patient

Answer 5

1) Orthostatic hypotension

2) Oliguria

Question 6

Signs and symptoms

Early signs

Answer 6

1) Lethargy
2) Irritability

3) Weakness

Question 7

Signs and symptoms
Severe signs (usually Na > 158mEq/L)

Answer 7

1) Hyperthermia
2) Delirium
3) Seizures
4) Coma

Question 8

Laboratory findings

Answer 8

(a) Serum electrolytes

1) Sodium concentration greater than 145 mEq/L.

Question 9

Imaging

Answer 9

None

Question 10

Treatment

Answer 10

a) Correcting the cause of the fluid loss
(b) Replacing water
(c) Replacing electrolytes (as needed)
(d) Fluids should be administered over a 48-hour period,
1) Aiming for serum sodium correction of approximately 1 mEq/L/h (1 mmol/L/h)

Question 11

Complications

Answer 11

Rapid correction of hypernatremia may cause cerebral edema and potentially severe
neurologic impairment.

Question 12

Follow up

Answer 12

(a) Patients with symptomatic hypernatremia require hospitalization for evaluation and
treatment.