Electrolyte Imbalances in Med Surg Nursing

Hypocalcemia

Confusion/behavioral changes, muscle twitching, and spasms in the throat muscles (Ca < 9)

Hypercalcemia

Headache, fatigue, vomiting, constipation, incontinence, kidney stones, kidney failure, arrhythmias, and pain in the bones and joints (Ca > 10.5)

Hyponatremia

Confusion, irritable, lowered reflexes, nausea and vomiting, and seizures (Na < 136)

Hypernatremia

Confusion/behavioral changes, heightened reflexes, loss of muscle control, and seizures (Na > 145)

Hypokalemia

Weakened muscles and cramps, frequent thirst and incontinence, dizziness and orthostatic hypotension. If severe, muscle tissue can break down and heart arrhythmia can occur (K < 3.5)

Hyperkalemia

Weakness, inability to move muscles, confusion, and arrhythmia (K > 5)

Hypomagnesemia

Muscle weakness, muscle twitching, and arrhythmias (Mg < 1.8)

Hypermagnesemia

Irregular heartbeat and arrhythmia, weakened reflexes, bradypnea, and cardiac arrest (Mg > 2.6)

Hypophosphatemia

Muscle weakness, rhabdomyolysis (breakdown of muscle tissue), seizures, and trouble breathing (P < 3)

Hyperphosphatemia

Asymptomatic until severe, shares symptoms of hypocalcemia as it can cause hypocalcemia, and excessive itching (P > 4.5)