Electrolytes-202

Anion Gap

(Na + K) - (Cl + HCO3)

Radial Artery

Is preferred site for arterial puncture. (Brachial artery is good alternative)

Allen Test

Performed to confirm there is ulnar artery perfusion to the hand prior to radial artery puncture.

Sodium (Na+)

Hyponatremia: Low Na+, fluid loss / Hypernatremia: High Na+, dehydration

Potassium (K)

Hypokalemia: low K+ Metabolic alkalosis / Hyperkalemia: High K+ Metabolic acidosis

Chloride (Cl-)

Hypochloremia: Low Cl- (Metabolic alkalosis) / Hyperchloremia: High Cl- (Metabolic acidosis)

Calcium (Ca)

Hypocalcemia: Low Calcium level

Magnesium (Mg+)

Hypomagnesemia: Low Mg+ / Hypermagnesemia: High Mg+ renal failure.

Phosphrous

Hyperphosphalmia: high PO4-, Chronic renal failure.

Platelets

Clot formation.

Hemoglobin

Anemia: Low Hb / Polycythemia: High Hb

Leukocyte

(WBCs) fights infections

Leukocytosis

Elevated WBC count

Leukopenia

Low WBC count overwhelming infection.