Integrative Body Functions: Fluid and Electrolyte Balance

These flashcards cover key vocabulary related to fluid and electrolyte balance, including definitions of terms, concepts of fluid movement, the role of hormones, and conditions associated with electrolyte imbalances.

Osmosis

The movement of fluid through a semipermeable membrane from an area of low solute concentration to an area of higher solute concentration until equilibrium is reached.

Hydrostatic Pressure

The pressure that pushes fluid out of the blood vessel into the tissue on the arterial side of the capillaries.

Osmotic (Oncotic) Pressure

The pressure that pulls or attracts fluid out of the tissue back into the blood vessel on the venous side of the capillaries.

Isotonic Solution

A solution that has the same solute concentration as blood, moves equally across membranes, and does not change cell size. Examples include 0.9% normal saline and lactated ringers.

Hypertonic Solution

A solution that has a higher solute concentration than blood, attracting fluid into the bloodstream. Examples include 3% and 6% saline.

Hypotonic Solution

A solution that has a lower solute concentration than blood, causing fluid to move out of the bloodstream. Examples include 0.45% NS and D5W.

Tonicity

The ability of a solution to affect the movement of water across a semipermeable membrane.

Diuretics

Medications that trigger the kidneys to release more water, often used to reduce edema.

Edema

Swelling caused by excess fluid trapped in the body's tissues.

Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH)

A hormone that signals the kidneys to retain water, helping to regulate fluid balance in the body.

Electrolyte Imbalance

A disruption of the balance of electrolytes in the body, which can affect various body functions and lead to serious health issues.

Cations

Positively charged ions; major cations include sodium (Na+), potassium (K+), calcium (Ca++), and magnesium (Mg+).

Acidosis

A condition characterized by an increase in hydrogen ions (H+) in the body, leading to a decrease in pH.

Alkalosis

A condition characterized by a decrease in hydrogen ions (H+) in the body, leading to an increase in pH.

Hyperventilation

Increased respiratory rate that results in elevated levels of oxygen and decreased levels of carbon dioxide.

ABG (Arterial Blood Gas)

A test that measures the levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood, as well as the pH to assess acid-base balance.

Fluid Overload

A condition where there is excess fluid in the body, which can lead to complications such as pulmonary edema.

Anions

Negatively charged ions; major anions include chloride (Cl-), bicarbonate (HCO3-), and phosphate (HPO4--).

Intracellular Fluid (ICF)

The fluid contained within the cells, accounting for approximately two-thirds of the body's total water.