Renal Deck 2 Flashcards
Hyponatremia
Serum sodium less than 135 mEq/L
Most common type of electrolyte imbalance of clients who are hospitalized
hyponatremia
Symptoms of hyponatremia are dependent on the
degree of sodium imbalance
Early signs of hyponatremia
Loss of appetite
Nausea and vomiting
Abdominal cramping
Late signs of hyponatremia
Confusion Lethargy Tremors Muscle twitching Convulsions Coma
Replacement therapy for Hyopnatremia include
sodium chloride in tablets or IV solutions depending on severity of condition
Hypernatremia
Serum sodium greater than 145 mEq/L
Symptoms of hypernatremia
Fatigue Weakness Muscle twitching Convulsions Changed mental status Reduced level of consciousness
treament of mild cases of hypernatremia
eating low-salt diet and drinking adequate water
treatment of hypernatremia severe
diuretics or infused 5% dextrose
Normal potassium range
3.5–5 mEq/L.
Hyperkalemia
> 5mEq/L
Mild hyperkalemia
the treatment of choice
restrict potassium-rich foods
potassium-rich foods
citrus fruits, bananas, dried fruits, broccoli, green leafy vegetables, and peanut butter.
In addition to dietary restrictions, it is important to assess this in hperkalemia
if the client is taking a potassium-sparing diuretic. If so, the dose may have to be decreased, or another type of diuretic prescribed in its place.
Severe hyperkalemiamay include administration of
Furosemide (Lasix), a diuretic that reduces potassium
Insulin with glucose or dextrose; causes potassium to enter cells
Calcium gluconate or calcium chloride; decreases cardiac complications
Sodium bicarbonate; corrects acidosis
Sodium polystyrene sulfonate (Kayexalate); binds with potassium in the intestinal tract for elimination
Hypokalemia
<3.5mEq/L
Hypokalemia
Very common electrolyte imbalance. It is most often caused by
potassium-wasting diuretics, vomiting, diarrhea, or excessive muscular activity.
