Fundamentals of Nursing Review

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to fluid, electrolyte, and acid-base balance in nursing.

Fluid balance

The maintenance of the proper volume and distribution of body fluids.

Osmolality

The concentration of solutes in body fluids, affecting fluid movement between compartments.

Active transport

The movement of substances across cell membranes against a concentration gradient, requiring energy.

Diffusion

The passive movement of molecules from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration.

Osmosis

The movement of water molecules through a semipermeable membrane from an area of low solute concentration to high solute concentration.

Electrolytes

Minerals in the body that carry an electrical charge and are essential for various physiological functions.

Hypernatremia

An electrolyte imbalance characterized by high sodium levels in the blood.

Hyponatremia

An electrolyte imbalance characterized by low sodium levels in the blood.

Acid-base balance

The equilibrium between acid and base concentrations in the body, crucial for normal physiological functions.

Metabolic acidosis

A condition characterized by low pH due to increased acid in the body or loss of bicarbonate.

Implementation

The execution of a nursing plan where nursing actions are carried out to address patient needs.

Critical thinking

The ability to analyze information objectively and make reasoned judgments.

Assessment

The systematic collection of data about a patient to identify health needs.

Patient education

Informing patients about their health conditions and teaching them how to manage their care.

Intravenous therapy

The administration of fluids and medications directly into the bloodstream via a vein.

Complications of intravenous therapy

Varied adverse effects associated with IV therapy, including infiltration and phlebitis.

Patient outcomes

Measurable results of healthcare interventions that reflect patient health status changes.