Sodium functions and imbalances

Question 1

What are the primary functions of Na?

Answer 1

• Regulate neurological/neuromuscular function
• Regulate fluid balance
• Maintain blood pressure

Question 2

What is considered critically low Na?

Answer 2

< 120 mEq/L

Question 3

What is the most common cause of hyponatremia?

Answer 3

Excess water in the body, which dilutes Na levels.

Question 4

What medication commonly results in hyponatremia?

Answer 4

Thiazide diuretics cause loss of Na through urinary loss

Question 5

What is a neurological manifestation that results in fluid shift in the brain due to hyponatremia?

Answer 5

Cerebral edema

Question 6

What is a major complication of hyponatremia?

Answer 6

Seizures

Question 7

How would hyponatremia be treated if the cause was related to:
1. Excessive water intake?
2. Fluid loss?
3. Medications?
4. Disease?

Answer 7

1. Fluid restriction
2. Administer IV fluids
3. Change medications
4. Change medications

Question 8

What individuals are most prone to hyponatremia?

Answer 8

Older adults due to physiological changes, disease, and greater medication use.

Question 9

What is considered a critically high Na?

Answer 9

> 160 mEq/L

Question 10

What is the most common cause of hypernatremia?

Answer 10

Water loss

Question 11

Major complications from hypernatremia?

Answer 11

Changes in LOC, seizures, and coma.

Question 12

What is an important consideration when correcting Na in hypernatremia?

Answer 12

Decrease Na levels slowly. If Na is corrected too fast, then cerebral edema could occur.

Question 13

Top five foods that contain Na?

Answer 13

1. Roasted ham (1,117 mg)
2. Frozen shrimp (800 mg)
3. Frozen Pizza (765 mg)
4. Canned soup (700 mg)
5. Vegetable juice (405 mg)