Concepts of Fluid and Electrolyte Balance and Imbalance

A series of flashcards covering key concepts related to fluid and electrolyte balance and imbalance for exam preparation.

Fluid and Electrolyte Balance

The regulation of body fluid volume, osmolarity, and composition, including electrolytes through filtration, diffusion, osmosis, and selective excretion.

Filtration

The movement of fluid through a cell or blood vessel membrane due to hydrostatic pressure differences.

Diffusion

The movement of particles (solute) across a permeable membrane from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration.

Osmosis

The movement of water through a selectively permeable membrane to achieve osmotic equilibrium.

Electrolytes

Dissolved substances that express an electrical charge, essential for maintaining membrane excitability and nerve impulse transmission.

Hyponatremia

A serum sodium level less than 136 mEq/L, often causing slower depolarization and decreased neuromuscular excitability.

Hypernatremia

A serum sodium level above 145 mEq/L, resulting in faster depolarization and potential cellular dehydration.

Hypokalemia

A serum potassium level less than 3.5 mEq/L, leading to reduced excitability of cells and impacting multiple body systems.

Hyperkalemia

A serum potassium level greater than 5.0 mEq/L, where excitable tissues respond to less intense stimuli.

Hypocalcemia

A serum calcium level below 9.0 mg/dL, leading to increased neuromuscular excitability and risk for spasms.

Hypercalcemia

A serum calcium level above 10.5 mg/dL, causing excitable membranes to become less sensitive to normal stimuli.

Hypomagnesemia

A serum magnesium level below 1.3 mEq/L, resulting in increased excitability and potential muscle cramps.

Hypermagnesemia

A serum magnesium level above 2.1 mEq/L, leading to bradycardia and muscular contractions ceasing.

Isotonic Solutions

Solutions that do not cause fluid movement into or out of cells; used for hydration.

Hypertonic Solutions

Solutions that draw water out of cells, used to correct fluid and electrolyte imbalances.

Hypotonic Solutions

Solutions that move water into cells to expand them.

Dehydration

A state where fluid intake is insufficient to meet the body's hydration needs, leading to deficiencies.

Fluid Overload

A condition where excess body fluid intake or retention exceeds the body's needs, potentially leading to health complications.