CH. 18 Fluids and Electrolytes Review

Flashcards for reviewing key terms and concepts related to fluids and electrolytes, including regulations, body processes, and treatment considerations.

Fluid Volume Deficit

A condition where there is a decrease in the amount of fluid in the body, which can affect very young, elderly, and obese patients.

Body Fluid Compartments

There are two main compartments: intracellular fluid (inside cells) and extracellular fluid (outside cells) which includes interstitial and intravascular fluid.

Homeostasis

The process by which the body maintains a stable internal environment.

Thirst Mechanism

The physiological response that regulates fluid intake based on the concentration of solutes in the blood.

Active Transport

The process by which substances move across a cell membrane against their concentration gradient, requiring energy, such as the sodium-potassium pump.

Passive Transport

Movement of substances across a cell membrane without the use of energy, including diffusion and osmosis.

Electrolyte Imbalance

An abnormal level of electrolytes in the body, which can affect sodium, potassium, chloride, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and bicarbonate.

Acid-Base Balance

The homeostatic balance of acids and bases in the body fluids, primarily regulated by buffers, the lungs, and kidneys.

Sodium (Na+)

The primary extracellular cation that helps regulate fluid volume and is crucial for muscle and nerve function.

Potassium (K+)

The major intracellular cation that plays a vital role in heart function, muscle contraction, and nerve signaling.

Calcium (Ca2+)

An essential mineral that is important for bone health, muscle function, and blood clotting.

Hypernatremia

A condition characterized by elevated sodium levels in the blood, often resulting in dehydration.

Hyponatremia

A condition in which sodium levels in the blood are too low, potentially leading to cellular edema.

Hyperkalemia

An elevated potassium level in the blood, which can lead to serious heart rhythm disturbances.

Hypokalemia

A decreased level of potassium in the blood, often resulting in muscle weakness and arrhythmias.

Urine-Specific Gravity

A measure of urine concentration used to evaluate fluid balance; higher values indicate concentrated urine.

Intravenous (IV) Therapy

The administration of fluids and medications directly into the bloodstream.

Fluid Overload

A potentially serious condition resulting from excess fluid intake leading to increased blood volume.

Blood Transfusion

The process of transferring blood or blood products into the bloodstream, requiring strict compatibility testing.

Transfusion Reaction

An adverse reaction that occurs when a patient receives incompatible blood, which can lead to severe complications.

Kidney Function

The kidneys play a crucial role in regulating fluid and electrolyte balance and maintaining acid-base homeostasis.

Dehydration Signs

Symptoms of dehydration include thirst, dry mucous membranes, increased heart rate, and decreased blood pressure.

Acidosis

A condition characterized by decreased blood pH (less than 7.35) indicating excess acidity.

Alkalosis

A condition characterized by increased blood pH (greater than 7.45) indicating excess alkalinity.