Electrolytes Flashcards
What are electrolytes?
Electrolytes are minerals in the body that carry an electric charge.
Which of the following is NOT an electrolyte: Sodium, Potassium, Glucose?
Glucose
True or False: Electrolytes are essential for muscle function.
True
Fill in the blank: The primary electrolyte found in extracellular fluid is ______.
Sodium
What role do electrolytes play in hydration?
Electrolytes help maintain fluid balance in the body.
Which electrolyte is most abundant in intracellular fluid?
Potassium
What is the normal range for serum sodium levels in mEq/L?
135-145 mEq/L
True or False: Calcium is an important electrolyte for blood clotting.
True
What is the function of chloride in the body?
Chloride helps maintain fluid balance and is a component of stomach acid.
Which electrolyte is primarily responsible for nerve impulse transmission?
Sodium
What condition is characterized by low potassium levels?
Hypokalemia
What is the main source of electrolytes in the diet?
Fruits and vegetables
True or False: Electrolyte imbalances can lead to muscle cramps.
True
Fill in the blank: The electrolyte that plays a key role in maintaining acid-base balance is ______.
Bicarbonate
What is hypernatremia?
A condition characterized by high sodium levels in the blood.
Which electrolyte is crucial for maintaining bone health?
Calcium
What are the symptoms of hyponatremia?
Symptoms include headache, confusion, seizures, and coma.
True or False: Magnesium is considered a trace electrolyte.
False
What is the role of potassium in the body?
Potassium helps regulate heartbeat and muscle function.
Fill in the blank: The primary electrolyte lost through sweat is ______.
Sodium
Which electrolyte is commonly measured during a metabolic panel?
Sodium
What is the normal range for serum potassium levels in mEq/L?
3.5-5.0 mEq/L
What is the term for high calcium levels in the blood?
Hypercalcemia
True or False: Electrolytes can be found in both food and beverages.
True
Which electrolyte helps to regulate blood pressure?
Sodium
What is the primary function of bicarbonate as an electrolyte?
To maintain acid-base balance in the body.
Fill in the blank: Electrolyte imbalances can be caused by ______, dehydration, or medications.
Illness
What is the main function of phosphorus in the body?
Phosphorus is important for energy production and bone health.
True or False: Sodium and potassium have opposite effects on blood pressure.
True
What is the term for low magnesium levels in the blood?
Hypomagnesemia
Which electrolyte is most important for cardiac function?
Potassium
Fill in the blank: The main route of potassium excretion is through the ______.
Kidneys
What are the potential consequences of severe electrolyte imbalances?
Severe imbalances can lead to arrhythmias, seizures, or even death.
Which electrolyte is often supplemented in sports drinks?
Sodium
What is the role of electrolytes in the human body?
They help regulate various physiological functions including hydration, nerve impulses, and muscle contractions.
