Hypo vs Hyper Nursing Cheat Sheet

This set of vocabulary flashcards covers essential nursing knowledge for electrolyte imbalances, respiratory status, temperature regulation, and blood sugar levels, including their causes, signs, and treatments based on the provided cheat sheet.

Hyponatremia

Low Sodium levels caused by too much water, vomiting/diarrhea, heart failure, kidney problems, or diuretics; characterized by confusion, headache, muscle cramps, weakness, and seizures.

Hypernatremia

High Sodium levels caused by dehydration, fever/sweating, or too much sodium; characterized by thirst, dry mouth, confusion, and muscle twitching.

Hypokalemia

Low Potassium levels caused by diuretics, vomiting/diarrhea, or laxatives; characterized by muscle weakness, cramps, and irregular heartbeat.

Hyperkalemia

High Potassium levels caused by kidney failure, burns, or too much potassium; characterized by weakness, tingling, and dangerous dysrhythmias.

Hypocalcemia

Low Calcium levels caused by thyroid/parathyroid surgery or vitamin D deficiency; characterized by tingling, muscle spasms, and tetany.

Hypercalcemia

High Calcium levels caused by hyperparathyroidism or cancer; characterized by weak muscles, constipation, and kidney stones.

Hypomagnesemia

Low Magnesium levels caused by alcoholism, malnutrition, or diarrhea; characterized by tremors, seizures, and hyperactive DTRs (deep tendon reflexes).

Hypermagnesemia

High Magnesium levels caused by kidney failure or too many antacids/laxatives; characterized by low DTRs (deep tendon reflexes), weakness, and low BP.

Hypophosphatemia

Low Phosphate levels caused by alcoholism or malnutrition; characterized by weakness and confusion.

Hyperphosphatemia

High Phosphate levels caused by kidney failure or too much phosphate intake; characterized by muscle cramps and tetany.

Hypoxia

Low oxygen caused by COPD, pneumonia, or airway blockage; characterized by shortness of breath, blue lips, and confusion.

Hypothermia

Low body temperature caused by cold exposure or shock; characterized by shivering and confusion.

Hyperthermia

High body temperature caused by infection or heat stroke; characterized by hot skin and sweating.

Hypoglycemia

Low blood sugar characterized by sweating, shaking, and confusion; treated with juice/glucose or glucagon if severe.

Hyperglycemia

High blood sugar characterized by thirst, frequent urination, and blurry vision; treated with insulin, fluids, and glucose monitoring.

Hypo (Memory Trick)

Low & Slow

Hyper (Memory Trick)

High & Fast