key electrolytes

Sodium

135-145mEq/L

•Major ECF cation

•Major functions:

–Water balance

–Transmission of nerve impulses

 

•N for Neuro

Potassium

3.5-5.0mEq/L

•Major cation of ICF

•Major function:

–Electrical conduction of nerve impulses-cardiac conduction

–Cell metabolism (glycogen & glucose)

•Body more sensitive to small changes in serum K+ than other electrolyteS

•K for Kardiac !

Fluid movement

•Active transport     (energy used)

•is important in maintaining differences in Na+ & K+

–Usually Na+ concn are higher in ECF and  K + is higher in ICF.

–To maintain this, the Na+ K+pump is activated, moving Na+ from cells and K+ into cells.

Calcium

: 8.5-10.5 mg/dl

•Major functions: 1% in ECF

–Normal skeletal muscle, smooth muscle, & cardiac muscle contraction; blood clotting

•In through diet. Needs Vit. D. to be absorbed

Phosphate

HPO42-: 1.6 – 2.9 mEq/L

•Major functions:

–Forms bones and teeth

–Metabolises carbs, protein, & fat

–Cellular metabolism: ATP and DNA

–Muscle, nerve, and RBC function

–Acid-Base balance

–Regulates Ca levels

Magnesium

1.5-2.5 mEq/L

•Major functions:

–Operating Na-K pump-use of ATP (energy)

–Relaxing muscle contractions

–Transmitting nerve impulses

–Regulates cardiac                                         function

–Blood clotting

–Protein & DNA                                           synthesis

Bicarbonate

HCO3

Primary function:

–Acid-Base balance: essential part of carbonic acid-bicarbonate buffering system.

•ECF regulated by kidneys. Kidneys regenerate and reabsorb if needed.