Electrolyte Balance & Functions

A set of flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to electrolyte balance and functions.

Potassium

Normal range: 3.5 - 5.0 mEq/L; affects heart function and neuromuscular excitability.

Sodium

Normal range: 135 - 145 mEq/L; critical for fluid balance and osmotic pressure.

Chloride

Normal range: 98 - 106 mEq/L; involved in maintaining acid-base balance.

Bicarbonate

Normal range: 22 - 26 mEq/L; works with pH balance.

Calcium and Phosphate

Require different units (mg/dL); involved in bone structure and neuromuscular activity.

Acidosis

Condition characterized by increased hydrogen ions leading to low pH; associated with hyperkalemia.

Alkalosis

Condition characterized by decreased hydrogen ions leading to high pH; associated with hypokalemia.

RAAS System

Regulates sodium and potassium in response to low blood pressure or blood volume.

Renin

Hormone released by kidneys to convert angiotensinogen to angiotensin I.

Angiotensin II

A hormone that causes vasoconstriction, increases blood pressure, stimulates aldosterone release.

Aldosterone

Hormone that promotes sodium reabsorption and potassium excretion by kidneys.

Hyponatremia

Low sodium levels caused by high blood volume and inability to urinate.

Hypernatremia

High sodium levels resulting from low blood volume and excessive urination.

Specific Gravity

Normal range: 1.005 to 1.030; indicates urine concentration.

Hypokalemia

Low potassium levels; can lead to dysrhythmias and EKG changes.

Hyperkalemia

High potassium levels; can result in bradycardia and peaked T waves on EKG.

Calcium Regulation

Involves vitamin D activation or PTH release; regulates blood calcium levels.

Calcitonin

Hormone released to decrease blood calcium levels.

Chloride-Bicarbonate Relationship

Inverse relationship; compete for reabsorption in kidneys.

Chloride vs pH

High chloride leads to low pH (acidic), while low chloride results in high pH (alkaline).