Sodium Imbalances Flashcards
What is the purpose of sodium?
osmotic pressure, acid-base balance
What hormone assists in regulating serum sodium balance?
Aldosterone
What family and patient education should be given for sodium?
- reduce salt in cooking
- avoid adding salt during meals
- Limit high-sodium foods
What is hypernatremia?
serum sodium level > 145
What is a critical level of sodium?
> 160
What are the things that can cause hypernatremia?
- impaired thirst mechanisms
- profuse sweating
- Diarrhea
- Diabetes insipidus or Cushing syndrome
- Inappropriate use of oral electrolyte solutions
What is hyponatremia?
Serum level <135
What is a critical level of hyponatremia?
<115
What are some things that can cause hyponatremia?
- diuretic use
- renal disease or adrenal insufficiency
- vomiting, diarrhea
- Excessive GI suctioning
- Irrigation of NG tubes with water
- burns
- Heart Failure
- Hypotonic IV fluid replacement
What are the manifestations of hyponatremia?
- edema, muscle cramps, abdominal cramps
- Weakness, fatigue
- Anorexia, nausea, vomiting
- At low levels: neurologic sx, muscle twitching, and tremors
- Levels <120 mEq/L: convulsions, coma, and death
How is hyponatremia typically managed?
- sodium-containing fluid
- sodium-containing food
- Safety promotion
What are the symptoms of hypernatremia?
- flushed skin and low-grade fever
- restless, irritable, anxious, confused
- Increased BP and fluid retention
- Edema: peripheral pitting
- Decreased urine output and dry mouth
What is the Acronym to remember hypernatremia symptoms?
FRIED or SALT
What is the Acronym to remember hyponatremia symptoms?
SALT LOSS
What does SALT LOSS stand for?
Stupor/coma
Anorexia
Lethargy
Tendon Reflexes (decreased)
Limp muscles
Orthostatic hypotension
Seizures/headaches
Stomach cramping
