Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Cholesterol and Lipid Panel, Cardiac Enzymes, and Diagnostic Tests

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms related to dehydration and overhydration, electrolytes, cholesterol and lipid panels, cardiac enzymes, and various diagnostic tests.

Dehydration

A condition resulting from excessive loss of water from the body, marked by symptoms such as thirst, low urine output, and fatigue.

Overhydration

A condition caused by excessive intake of water, leading to symptoms like edema, headache, and increased blood pressure.

Hyponatremia

Low sodium levels in the blood, often causing confusion, weakness, and seizures.

Hypernatremia

High sodium levels in the blood, typically caused by dehydration, leading to symptoms such as thirst and confusion.

Hypokalemia

Low potassium levels in the blood, which can cause muscle weakness and irregular heartbeats.

Hyperkalemia

High potassium levels in the blood, presenting symptoms like muscle weakness and peaked T waves on an ECG.

Hypocalcemia

Low calcium levels in the blood associated with symptoms like muscle cramping and seizures.

Hypercalcemia

High calcium levels in the blood, leading to symptoms such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, and confusion.

Hypomagnesemia

Low magnesium levels in the blood, which may result in muscle cramps and seizures.

Hypermagnesemia

High magnesium levels in the blood, causing drowsiness, decreased reflexes, and potential respiratory depression.

Cholesterol Panel

A blood test measuring total cholesterol, aiming to assess cardiovascular disease risk and evaluate lipid-lowering therapy.

LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein)

Often referred to as 'bad cholesterol,' contributing to plaque buildup in arteries.

HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein)

Known as 'good cholesterol,' it removes cholesterol from arteries and provides heart protection.

Troponin I & T

Cardiac enzymes measured to detect myocardial injury and are the most specific tests for heart damage.

PT/INR (Prothrombin Time/International Normalized Ratio)

Blood tests to measure clotting ability and ensure safe dosing of warfarin.

aPTT (Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time)

A test used to monitor clotting time while a patient is on heparin, helping to adjust dosing.

Chest X-ray (CXR)

Imaging technique used to assess the heart, lungs, and chest structures, useful for diagnosing conditions like pneumonia.

EKG/ECG

A test that measures the electrical activity of the heart to assess heart rhythm and detect potential electrolyte imbalances.

Echocardiogram

An ultrasound of the heart that provides information on heart structure and function, assisting in diagnosing heart conditions.