Minerals and Electrolytes (Major Minerals)

Question 1

Major minerals occur in larger amounts (more than 5 g) in the body, and ___ mg or more is required through dietary sources each day

Answer 1

100 mg/day or more

Question 2

7 major minerals:

Answer 2

1. Calcium
2. Phosphorus
3. Sodium
4. Potassium
5. Magnesium
6. Chloride
7. Sulfur

Question 3

Sodium (Na+)

Answer 3

Maintains fluid volume
Allows muscle contractions
Contributes to nerve impulses

Question 4

Major Sources of Na+

Answer 4

Table salt
Added salt
Processed foods

Question 5

Deficiency of Na+

Answer 5

Muscle cramping
Memory loss
Anorexia

Question 6

Excess of Na+

Answer 6

Fluid retention
Hypertension
Disorientation

Question 7

Nursing Considerations of Na+

Answer 7

Monitor level of consciousness, edema, and blood pressure

Question 8

Potassium (K+)

Answer 8

Maintains fluid volume INSIDE CELLS

Muscle action

Question 9

Major sources of K

Answer 9

Oranges
Tomatoes
Avacodos
Dried fruits/peas
Meats
Broccoli
Bananas
Dairy products
Whole grains

Question 10

Deficiency of K

Answer 10

Dysrhythmias
Muscle Cramps
Confusion

Question 11

Excess of K

Answer 11

Dysrhythmias
Muscle weakness
Irritability
Confusion
Numbness in extremeties

Question 12

Nursing Considerations of K

Answer 12

Monitor cardiac status and ECG. PO tabs irritate the GI system. Give with meals

Question 13

Chloride (Cl-)

Answer 13

Assists with intracellular and extracellular fluid balance

aids in digestion

Question 14

Major Sources of Cl

Answer 14

Table Salt

Question 15

Deficiency of Cl

Answer 15

Rare
Muscle cramps
anorexia

Question 16

Excess of Cl

Answer 16

Vomiting

Question 17

Nursing Considerations of Cl

Answer 17

Monitor sodium levels