Electrolytes

Question 1

What is the normal range of sodium?

Answer 1

135-145mmol

Question 2

What is the role of sodium?

Answer 2

Na+ is the main electrolyte in extracellular fluid
it helps maintain fluid balance
it is involved in absorption of nutrients in the gut, nerve impulse transmission, muscle contraction and maintaining cognitive function

Question 3

What are the causes of low sodium (hyponatremia)?

Answer 3

decreased intake
dilution as a result of increased H2O or H2O retention
increased ADH- SIADH, pituitary involvement
AKI
Diuretics
increased sweating, vomiting, and diarrhoea

Question 4

What are the symptoms of low Na/hyponatraemia?

Answer 4

weakness, fatigue, headache, NV, cramps, confusion and irritability

Question 5

How can you treat hyponatraemia?

Answer 5

treat underlying cause
reduce intake
adjust diuretic dose
IV sodium solution

Question 6

What are the normal ranges of potassium?

Answer 6

3.6-5.2mmol/L

Question 7

What is hypokalaemia?

Answer 7

Low K

<3.5mmol/L

Question 8

What are some causes of hypokalaemia?

Answer 8

decreased intake
increased excretion (kidney failure)
K+ shift
diuretics
diarrhoea
laxative abuse
vomiting
insulin use (excessively)
malnutrition

Question 9

What is hyperkalaemia?

Answer 9

High K

>5/5.5mmol/L

Question 10

Causes of hyperkalaemia

Answer 10

excessive intake, decreased excretion (renal insufficiency), K+ shift, potassium sparing diuretics (amiloride and spironolactone), ACEi, NSAIDs, DM, beta blockers, digoxin.