Fluid and Acid Medications

These flashcards cover key medications used for fluid and acid balance, their actions, adverse effects, nursing considerations, and related laboratory values.

Potassium chloride

Replaces potassium to support heart rhythm and muscle function.

Hyperkalemia

Excess potassium in the blood, a potential adverse effect of potassium chloride.

Sodium bicarbonate

Neutralizes acid, used to treat metabolic acidosis.

Metabolic alkalosis

A condition where blood pH is elevated due to excess bicarbonate, can occur from sodium bicarbonate.

0.45% NaCl

Hypotonic saline solution that causes fluid to move into cells.

Hypertonic saline (3% NaCl)

Solution that pulls fluid out of cells, potentially causing pulmonary edema.

Lactated Ringer’s

Fluid and electrolyte replacement solution, used in trauma and burns.

Calcium gluconate

Treats hypocalcemia and stabilizes cardiac membrane.

Constipation

Possible adverse effect of oral calcium.

Magnesium sulfate

Prevents seizures in eclampsia and treats hypomagnesemia.

Calcium

Essential for bone and nerve function, can be affected by vitamin D absorption.

D5W (5% Dextrose)

Initially isotonic but becomes hypotonic, hydrating cells.

K⁺ & Mg²⁺ effects on heart

Elevated levels can lead to arrhythmias.

Na⁺ role in fluid balance

Sodium impacts fluid balance and brain risk.