Sensory Flashcards
What are electrolytes?
Molecules which split into two parts in water and have electric charge.
What are the types of electrolytes?
- Cations (+): Na, K, Ca, Mg
- Anions (-): Cl, HCO3, PO4
What regulates electrolyte balance?
- Dietary intake (in)
- Renal (out)
- Hormones (parathyroid, aldosterone)
What systems are affected by electrolyte imbalances?
- Impaired oxygenation/perfusion
- Impaired cerebral function
- Impaired neuromuscular function
What is the normal range for sodium levels?
136-145 mmol/L
What is the chief function of potassium?
Chief regulator of cellular enzyme activity and water content.
What is hyponatremia?
Blood sodium level less than 136 mEq/L.
What are the causes of hyponatremia?
- Excess water in plasma
- Loss of sodium-rich fluids
What are the expected findings in a patient with hyponatremia?
- Hypothermia
- Tachycardia
- Hypotension
- Confusion
- Muscle weakness
- Seizures
What nursing care is recommended for hyponatremia?
- Monitor I&O
- Daily weights
- Vital signs
- Encourage sodium-rich foods
What defines hypernatremia?
Blood sodium level greater than 145 mEq/L.
What are the risk factors for hypernatremia?
- Water deprivation
- Excessive sodium intake
- Fluid losses from fever
- Diabetes insipidus
What are the vital signs findings in hypernatremia?
- Hyperthermia
- Tachycardia
- Orthostatic hypotension
What is hypokalemia?
Potassium level less than 3.5 mEq/L.
What are the risk factors for hypokalemia?
- Hyperaldosteronism
- Inadequate dietary intake
- Excessive GI losses
What are expected findings in hypokalemia?
- Weak, irregular pulse
- Muscle weakness
- ECG changes
- Anxiety
What is the maximum IV potassium concentration allowed?
40-60 mEq/L.
What is hyperkalemia?
Condition characterized by high potassium levels.
What are the clinical manifestations of hyperkalemia?
- Slow, irregular pulse
- Muscle weakness
- Increased GI motility
- ECG changes
What is hypomagnesemia?
Condition characterized by low blood magnesium levels (<1.3 mEq/L).
What are the risk factors for hypomagnesemia?
- GI losses
- Diuretics
- Malnutrition
What are the signs and symptoms of hypermagnesemia?
- Diminished DTRs
- Muscle paralysis
- Bradycardia
- Lethargy
What should be monitored in a patient with fluid and electrolyte imbalances?
- I&O
- Vital signs
- Level of consciousness
What is the significance of sodium in the body?
Essential for acid-base and fluid balance, transport mechanisms, and nerve and muscle function.
Fill in the blank: Sodium is a major electrolyte in _______.
ECF
True or False: Hyperkalemia can result from kidney failure.
True
What are common causes of hypermagnesemia?
- Kidney impairment
- Increased magnesium intake from medications
What is the normal range for calcium levels?
8.6-10.3 mg/dL
What is the primary buffer system in the body?
Bicarbonate
What are the risk factors for hypernatremia?
- Water deprivation
- Heat stroke
- Excessive sodium intake
What nursing interventions are important for a patient with hyperkalemia?
- Continuous ECG monitoring
- Decreased potassium intake
- Administer IV fluids with dextrose and regular insulin
What is the impact of sodium changes on cerebral function?
Leads to swelling or shrinking of cells, especially brain cells.
