Electrolytes Flashcards
What effect does calcium have on muscle cells?
Calming effect
What regulates calcium levels in the extracellular fluid?
Parathyroid hormone, calcitonin, and calcitriol
How does calcium assist in blood clotting?
Converts prothrombin to thrombin
How do Calcium levels affect Sodium?
Low Calcium increases Sodium movement across excitable membranes
What test is most helpful when monitoring hypocalcemic levels?
24 hour urine calcium levels
Malignant tumors can cause what type of hormonal imbalance?
They cause hypercalcemia by releasing calcium from bones
What is a side effect of hypercalcemia?
Renal caliculi
How much should a hypercalcemic patient drink?
3-4 L/day
Besides calcium, which electrolyte should be used to treat osteoporosis, and why?
Magnesium because it helps Calcium bind to bone
Why are alcoholics so susceptible to electrolyte imbalances?
Because they don’t eat well
What supplements do “banana bags” contains?
Magnesium, thiamine, and folic acid
What patients are susceptible to hyeragnesemia?
Renal failure, Addison’s, Adrenalectomy, and Adrenal Insufficiency
How does the body use Phosphorous?
It activates B-complex vitamins, forms and activates ATP, and assists in cell division
What type of relationship do Calcium and Phosphorous have?
Indirect
How does the body use chloride?
It helps in the formation of HCl acid in the stomach
