Electrolytes Flashcards
1
Q
Sodium (Na+) Levels
A
135 - 145 mEq/L
2
Q
Sodium (Na+) Facts
A
- Most abundant electrolyte in the ECF
- Important in regulating neuromuscular impulses in the nerve & muscle fibers
- Attracts water
- Controlled by renal reabsorption & excretion
- Dietary sources are:
a. Table salt
b. processed/cured meat
c. packaged food
d. sea food
e. cheese
3
Q
Hyponatremia Levels
A
- Low Na+
2. < 135
4
Q
Causes of Hyponatremia
A
- Diaphoresis
- Wound drainage
- Duiretic
- Dilutional states
5
Q
Hyponatremia Manifestations
A
- Decreased urinary output
- Sleeplessness
- Spasm
- Muscle Weakness
- Decreased deep tendon reflex
- Coma
- N/V
- Anorexia
6
Q
Hyponatremia Tx
A
- Tx cause
- Hypertonic IV fluid (Severe case)
- Isotonic IV fluid
- Oral Na+ supplement
- Restrict fluids
7
Q
Hyponatremia RN Implication
A
- Monitor I & O
- DW
- Monitor labs
- Restrict fluids
- Increase dietary intake
- Monitor fluid status
8
Q
Hypernatremia Levels
A
- High Na+
2. > 145
9
Q
Causes of Hypernatremia
A
- Increase in Na+ intake
- Excess loss of water or inadequate intake of water
- Dehydration
10
Q
Hypernatremia Manifestation
A
- Irritability
- Restlessness
- Aagitation
- Confusion
- Lathargy
- Muscle weakness
- Twitching or seizure
- Thirst**
11
Q
Hypernatremia Tx
A
- Tx cause
- Correct fluid imbalance carefully
- IV fluids for dehydration (Isotonic & Hypertonic)
12
Q
Hypernatremia RN Implication
A
- Monitor VS
- Monitor I & O
- DW
- Monitor edema
- Nutritional assessment
13
Q
Potassium (K+) Levels
A
3.5 - 5 mEq/L
14
Q
Potassium (K+) Facts
A
- Major cation in the ICF
- Important for nerve –> cell communication & the initiation of muscle contraction
- Controlled by kidneys
a. Aldosterone(promotes excretion) & insulin (moves K+ into cell. - Dietary sources:
a. Bananas
b. Cantaloupe
c. Green leafy vegetables
d. Potatoes
e. Avocados
15
Q
Hypokalemia Level
A
< 3.5 mEq/L