From Review: Electrolyte Imbalances Flashcards
hyperkalemia level
above 7.0 mEq/L - very serious
consequences of hyperkalemia
weakness, cardiac arrhythmias, GI probs, death
consequences of hypernatremia
edema, thirst, decreased reflexes, heart probs, agitation and disorientation
hypokalemia s/s
respiratory & heart probs, cardiac arrhythmias, tachycardia, myalgia, cramps, weakness, paralytic ileus
phosphorus target levels
3.5-5.5 mg/dL
phosphorus severe levels
serum 7-15 mg/dL
cause of high phosphorus levels
high phos consumption, not taking phos binding meds appriopriately
consequences of hyperphosphatemia
bone weakening and itching
hyperphosphatemia mgmt meds
renagel or renvela, fosrenal, aluminum actacids: amphogel, Alu-tabs to bind phos in the gut and increase excretion in stool.
must be taken w/each meal and snack.
hyperphosphatemia Ca sups
Ca sups (like Phoslyra Ca acetate or Phoslo) may be used to bind phos and provide needed Ca but keep serum Ca at less mid normal range and only take if phos is less than 7 mg/dL to prevent soft tissue calcification
hypophosphatemia s/s
common in CRF pts.
heart & respiratory probs.
mild hypercalcemia
Ca > 10.5 mg/dL. can cause constipation, anorexia, N&V, CVD
consequences of hypercalcemia
cardiac probs, CVD fatigue, weakness anorexia polydipsea constipation nephrolithiasis calcification of soft tissues calciphylaxis
hypercalcemia is very dangerous in pts
taking digitalis for cardiac arrhythmias and Phoslo is not recommended. use other sup w/caution
elevated Ca, phos, Ca x P, iPTH increase risk of
CVD, calciphylaxis, bone disorders
