Electrolyte Flashcards

Practice flashcards covering definitions, physiological roles, normal ranges, and clinical manifestations of electrolyte imbalances.

What is the primary cellular location and function of sodium ($Na^+$)?

Sodium ($Na^+$) is the main extracellular cation (outside cells) that regulates fluid balance, nerve impulses, and muscle function.

What laboratory value defines hyponatremia, and what are its symptoms?

Hyponatremia is defined as LOW $Na^+$ below $135\,mEq/L$. Symptoms include headache, confusion, muscle cramps, twitching, weakness, and seizures.

What is potassium ($K^+$) and what functions does it regulate in the body?

Potassium ($K^+$) is the main intracellular cation (inside cells) that regulates heart rhythm, muscle contraction, and nerve impulses.

What cutoff defines hyperkalemia, and what severe symptoms are associated with it?

Hyperkalemia is defined as HIGH $K^+$ above $5.0\,mEq/L$. Manifestations include muscle weakness, flaccid paralysis, abdominal cramping, dangerous arrhythmias, and cardiac arrest.

What is the definition and primary physiological role of chloride ($Cl^-$)?

Chloride ($Cl^-$) is the main extracellular anion (outside cells) and functions to maintain fluid balance and acid-base balance.

What blood level defines hypocalcemia, and what clinical signs does it cause?

Hypocalcemia is defined as LOW Total calcium below $8.5\,mg/dL$. Manifestations include tingling, muscle spasms, tetany, seizures, laryngospasm, and arrhythmias.

What cutoff indicates hypercalcemia, and what are its symptoms?

Hypercalcemia is defined as HIGH Total calcium above $10.5\,mg/dL$. Symptoms include fatigue, constipation, nausea, confusion, muscle weakness, and arrhythmias.

What value defines hypomagnesemia, and what are its symptoms?

Hypomagnesemia is defined as LOW Magnesium below $1.5\,mEq/L$. Its symptoms include muscle cramps, tetany, seizures, arrhythmias, and tremors.

What defines hypermagnesemia, and what are its clinical manifestations?

Hypermagnesemia is defined as HIGH Magnesium above $2.5\,mEq/L$. Symptoms include diminished reflexes, muscle weakness, hypotension, flaccid paralysis, and respiratory depression.

What is phosphate ($PO_4^{3-}$), where is it located, and what is its function?

Phosphate ($PO_4^{3-}$) is located mostly in bones, teeth, and cells. It helps produce ATP (cell energy) and supports bones and muscles.