Gastrointestinal and Electrolyte Disorders Practice Flashcards

Comprehensive vocabulary flashcards covering gastrointestinal disorders, electrolyte imbalances, nutrition, and priority nursing interventions based on the lecture notes.

Normal Potassium Range

$$3.5-5.0\,mEq/L$$

Severe Hypokalemia

A level of $2.5\,mEq/L$ or lower, which is a priority for cardiac dysrhythmias and respiratory muscle weakness.

Ascites

Fluid accumulation in the abdomen, often treated with low sodium ($Na^+$) intake, fluid restriction, and daily weights.

Esophageal Varices

Enlarged veins in the esophagus where the biggest danger is gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding.

BUN (Blood Urea Nitrogen) in GI contexts

Level rises (e.g., above $7-20\,mg/dL$) during a GI bleed because digested blood leads to protein breakdown.

EGD (Upper Endoscopy) Priority

Assess for the return of the gag reflex before providing food or water to prevent aspiration.

GI Perforation signs

Sudden severe pain, a rigid or board-like abdomen, and absent bowel sounds ("silent belly").

Iron Absorption

Enhanced by Vitamin C (e.g., orange juice) and inhibited by Calcium (e.g., milk).

Nasogastric (NG) Suction Complication

Commonly causes hypokalemia (low potassium) because electrolytes are lost during stomach drainage.

Acute Pancreatitis Labs

Elevated Lipase (above $0-160\,U/L$) and elevated Amylase, with decreased Calcium.

Peritonitis

A major complication of diverticulitis characterized by fever, a rigid abdomen, and rebound tenderness.

C. difficile Protocol

Requires stool culture/toxin testing, contact precautions, and handwashing with soap and water (not alcohol sanitizer).

Celiac Disease Dietary Restrictions

Must avoid gluten found in wheat, rye, and barley; rice, corn, and potatoes are safe.

Vitamin B12 Sources

Found in animal products such as meat, fish, eggs, and milk; not found in leafy greens.

Omega-3 Exam Source

Soybean oil is specifically highlighted as a source, alongside salmon, tuna, and walnuts.

Urine Specific Gravity Dehydration Marker

A level of $1.035$ (normal is $1.005-1.030$) indicates dehydration.

Crohn's Disease Diet

High protein, high calorie, and low fat; avoid high-fiber foods and raw fruits with skins during flares.

Albumin

A laboratory marker for malnutrition, liver disease, or kidney disease; normal range is $3.5-5\,g/dL$.

TPN (Total Parenteral Nutrition) Complication

Hyperglycemia (elevated blood glucose) is the most common complication.

Hepatitis C Transmission

Spread via infected blood (e.g., dirty needles, blood transfusions, needlesticks), not through food or water.

Hepatic Encephalopathy

Confusion and personality changes caused by ammonia buildup in liver failure; treated with Lactulose.

Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy Post-op Pain

Shoulder pain caused by $CO_2$ gas irritating the diaphragm; best treated by ambulating (walking).

Ulcerative Colitis Priority

Fluid and electrolyte replacement due to massive diarrhea and potential hypovolemia.

Melena

Black, tarry stools indicating gastrointestinal bleeding, which must be reported immediately.

Mechanically Altered Diet

Soft foods like eggs and bananas are allowed; hard items like toast and raw vegetables are not.