Nurse’s Role in Fluid and Electrolyte Balance

A set of practice flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts related to fluid and electrolyte balance in nursing.

Fluid Imbalance

The disturbance in the normal balance of fluids in the body, which can either be excess or deficit.

Osmosis

The transfer of fluids from an area of lower concentration to an area of higher concentration to achieve balance.

Isotonic Solution

A solution that has the same concentration of solutes as cells in the body, e.g., LR and normal saline 0.9%.

Hypertonic Solution

A solution that has more dissolved particles than cells in the body, e.g., 3% sodium chloride.

Hypotonic Solution

A solution that has less dissolved particles than cells in the body, e.g., 0.45% sodium chloride.

Daily Fluid Intake and Output

The average adult intake and output of fluids ranging from 2300-2900 mL every 24 hours.

ACE Inhibitors

Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors that block the RAAS system, causing vasodilation and decreased blood pressure.

ARB Drugs

Angiotensin receptor blockers that also block the RAAS system to achieve vasodilation and decreased blood pressure.

Diuretics

Medications that help reduce fluid buildup in the body by increasing urine output.

Hypokalemia

A condition characterized by low potassium levels in the blood, which can lead to fatigue and dysrhythmias.

Hypernatremia

A condition characterized by high sodium levels in the blood, often due to water loss, causing symptoms like thirst and confusion.

Chvostek's Sign

A sign associated with hypocalcemia where facial twitching occurs after tapping the facial nerve.

Trousseau's Sign

Involuntary muscle contraction of the hand and wrist when compressing the upper arm, indicating hypocalcemia.

Hypomagnesemia

A condition characterized by low magnesium levels in the blood, which can cause neuromuscular irritability and tremors.

Phlebitis

Inflammation of a vein that can occur at an IV insertion site, characterized by redness and warmth around the site.

Fluid Overload

A condition that occurs when too much fluid is administered to the body, leading to swelling and breathing difficulties.

Daily Weight Monitoring

The best indicator of fluid volume status, where a weight change of 1 pound equates to approximately 500 mL of fluid volume.