Hypernatremia Flashcards
Normal range of sodium
135-145 mEq/L
What is considered hypernatremic
> 145 mEq/L
What is hypernatremia on a cellular level
Large amount of sodium congregated outside the cell
Osmosis -> sodium wanted to follow and be outside
Cell shrinks
What does sodium do in the body
Helps regulate water intracellular and extracellular
Water wants to go where sodium goes
Causes of hypernatremia
“HIGH SALT”
Hypercortisolism (Cushing’s syndrome + hyperventilation)
Increased Na+ intake (oral or IV routes)
GI feeding without adequate H2O supplement
Hypertonic solutions (ex. 3% saline)
Sodium excretion decreased (ex. Corticosteroids)
Aldosterone problems (increased reabsorption of sodium)
Loss of fluids (dehydrated, fever, sweating)
Thirst impairment (often in elderly)
S&S of hypernatremia
“No FRIED foods for you” Fever, flushed skin Restless, really agitated Increased fluid retention Edema, extremely confused Decreased urine output, dry mouth/skin
Interventions for hypernatremia
- restrict Na+ intake
- make sure pt is safe (confused + agitated)
- MD may order an isotonic or hypotonic IV solution (0.45% NS)
- educate about diet and S&S of increased Na+ level
What should be considered when giving 0.45% NS
- give slowly
- if given too fast, cell can expand too fast
- can lead to cerebral edema
Foods to avoid in a sodium restricted diet
Bacon Butter Canned foods Cheese Hot dogs Lunch meats Processed foods Table salt