Fluids & Electrolytes Flashcards
Define Total body water (TBW)
The total amount of water in the body at a given time
Define Intracellular fluid (ICF)
The fluid inside the body cells
Define Extracellular fluid (ECF)
The fluid outside the body cells.
intravascular fluid & interstitial fluid
Define Intravascular fluid
The fluid within the circulatory system
Define Interstitial fluid
The fluid in body tissues that is outside the cells and outside the vascular system
Define Solvent
A substance that dissolves other substances, forming a solution
What is the largest cellular compartment?
Intracellular compartment
List the percentages of all four of the body fluid compartments
Intracellular 75.0%
Extracellular 25.0%
Interstitial 17.5%
Intravascular 7.5%
What percentage of an infant’s weight is TBW?
75-80%
What percentage of an adult male’s weight is TBW?
65-70%
What percentage of an adult female’s weight is TBW?
60-65%
Why is there a difference in TBW between genders?
Due to hormonal differences that result in the male’s greater muscle mass and the female’s greater percentage of body fat
What are two reasons that infants have a higher TBW
- Infants have less fat than adults (Fat doesn’t absorb in water. Less fat more water)
- Water is essential for high rates of metabolism (Necessary to promote growth)
What percentage of an elderly patient’s weight is TBW? Why is it lower?
~45-55%
Loss of muscle mass, increased percentage of fat, and the body’s decreasing ability to regulate fluid levels
List several factors that contribute to dehydration
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Perspiration
- Peritonitis
- Malnutrition
- Burns
- Open wounds