Hypernatremia

What is hypernatremia?

sodium of 145+

What happens during hypernatremia?

fluid leaves the cells (shrink)

What happens to DTRs with hypernatremia?

decreased (absent or reduced)

What are causes of actual sodium excess?

hyperaldosteroneism, kidney failure, corticosteroids, cushing’s, excess sodium ingestion, excess administration of IV fluids

What causes relative sodium excess?

dehydration, increased metabolism, fever, hyperventilation, infection, sweating, diarrhea

What happens to HR with hypernatremia?

tachycardia

What happens with BP for hypernatremia?

hypotension

What is an expected finding for patients with hypernatremia?

increased thirst

What drugs are given for hypernatremia?

isotonic (0.9%) and hypertonic (5% and 0.45%)

What happens to hypertonic (5% and 0.45%) when infused?

becomes hypotonics (glucose is rapidly metabolized)

What is nutritional therapy for hypernatremia?

increase water intake, decrease sodium intake