Electrolytes Flashcards
Functions of Electrolytes
Promote neuromuscular irritability
Regulate acid & base balance
Regulate distribution of body fluids among body compartments
These electrolytes are most common in Intracellular fluid
Prevalent cation is K+
Prevalent anion is Phosphate
These electrolytes are the most common in extracellular fluid
Prevalent cation is Na+
Prevalent anion is Cl-
Functions of Sodium
Attracts fluid and helps preserve fluid volume
Combines with chloride and bicarbonate to regulate acid-base balance
Who am I: (blank increases) then - Increase thirst – increase ADH, kidneys retain water, dilutes blood and normalizes serum osmolality
Sodium
Who am I: (Blank Decreases)– ADH suppression, kidneys excrete more water to restore normal serum osmolality
Sodium
(BLANK) regulates ECF sodium balance via feedback loop – adrenal cortex secretes aldosterone, stimulates renal tubules to conserve water and sodium when serum sodium low – normalizes ECF sodium level.
Aldostereone
Untreated changes in (BLANK) levels can lead to serious cardiac and neuromuscular problems
Potassium
PH: (BLANK) –> hyperkalemia (K+ moves out of cells)
Acidosis
PH: (BLANK)–> hypokalemia (K+ moves into cells)
Alkalosis
S.U.C.T.I.O.N.
Skeletal muscle weakness U wave (EKG changes) Constipation, ileus Toxicity of digitalis glycosides Irregular, weak pulse Orthostatic hypotension Numbness (paresthesia)
S.U.C.T.I.O.N. reflects (blank)
Hypokalemia
S.A.L.T.
Skin flushed
Agitation
Low grade fever
Thirst
SALT reflects (BLANK)
Hypernatremia
More symptoms of Hypernatremia
Restlessness Dry, sticky mucous membranes, rough/dry tongue Tachycardia Lethargy Seizures/Coma Impaired LOC
Interventions for Hypernatremia
Correct underlying disorder Gradual fluid replacement Monitor for s/s of cerebral edema Monitor serum Na+ level Seizure precautions
Causes of Hypernatremia
May be caused by water deficit or over-ingestion of Na+
Also may result from diabetes insipidus
Renal Dysfunction
When high levels of (blank) occurs, fluid shifts outside the cells
Sodium
Nursing interventions for hyponatremia
Restrict fluid intake for hyper/isovolemic hyponatremia
IV fluids and/or increased po Na+ intake for hypovolemic hyponatremia