Hydration & Homeostasis

These flashcards cover key concepts from Chapter 35 on Hydration & Homeostasis from the Basic Nursing text.

What is the primary body fluid in humans?

Water is the primary body fluid.

What happens to body fluid balance during illness?

Illness disturbs the fluid and chemical balance of the body.

What is osmosis in relation to fluid movement?

Osmosis is the movement of water across a semipermeable membrane from an area of lower solute concentration to higher solute concentration.

What are the two main compartments of body fluids?

Intracellular fluid (ICF) and extracellular fluid (ECF).

Name a major electrolytes found in extracellular fluid.

Sodium, chloride, bicarbonate, and albumin are found in extracellular fluid.

What is the normal sodium range in mEq/L?

135-145 mEq/L.

What is hypernatremia?

Hypernatremia is when sodium levels exceed 145 mEq/L.

Identify one sign of hyponatremia.

Stupor or coma.

What condition is indicated by potassium levels below 3.5 mEq/L?

Hypokalemia.

What are the risk factors for hyperkalemia?

Excess potassium intake, adrenal gland issues, and the use of potassium-sparing diuretics.

What does calcium typically affect in the body?

Calcium affects bones, cardiac function, and blood clotting.

What is the range for hypocalcemia?

Hypocalcemia is defined as calcium levels below 8.5 mg/dL.

What is the consequence of high levels of magnesium?

High magnesium levels can lead to bradycardia and hypotension.

What is the normal range for bicarbonate in the body?

22-26 mEq/L.

Define metabolic acidosis.

Metabolic acidosis occurs when the serum pH falls below 7.35 due to loss of bicarbonate.

What are signs of fluid volume excess?

Elevated blood pressure, bounding pulse, and edema.

What is the primary purpose of intravenous (IV) therapy?

To replace fluid volume and maintain electrolyte balance.

Name one complication that may arise from blood transfusions.

Possible complications include hemolytic reactions and circulatory overload.