Fluid, Electrolytes, and Acid-Base Balance

These flashcards cover key concepts related to fluid and electrolyte imbalances, their assessment findings, management, and the related acid-base balance in patients.

What are the major intracellular and extracellular electrolytes?

Major intracellular electrolyte is potassium (K+); major extracellular electrolyte is sodium (Na+).

What is osmolality and its significance?

Osmolality measures how concentrated the blood is, controlled by water balance and influenced by ADH; high osmolality indicates dehydration.

What is the effect of hypertonic solutions on cells?

Hypertonic solutions cause cells to shrink as water leaves the cells.

What are the assessment findings of fluid overload (ECV Excess)?

Assessment findings include edema, rapid weight gain, elevated BP, crackles in lungs, SOB, and bounding pulses.

What causes hyponatremia and its assessment findings?

Causes include excess water intake and hypotonic IV fluids; findings include decreased LOC, seizures, labs show ↓Na.

What are the interventions for hypernatremia?

Encourage oral water, administer hypotonic IV solutions, limit sodium intake, and monitor neuro status.

What is the normal range for serum sodium?

Normal serum sodium range is 136–145 mEq/L.

How does potassium affect cardiac function?

Potassium affects cardiac rhythm and muscle contractility; its imbalance can lead to arrhythmias.

What are the symptoms of hypokalemia?

Symptoms include weakness, dysrhythmias, constipation, and decreased bowel sounds.

What characterizes metabolic acidosis?

Metabolic acidosis is characterized by pH < 7.35 and HCO₃ < 22, often due to conditions like DKA or renal failure.

What is the primary regulator of calcium levels in the body?

Calcium levels are primarily regulated by parathyroid hormone (PTH) and vitamin D.

What are the symptoms of hypercalcemia?

Symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, confusion, muscle weakness, and increased thirst.

How is magnesium regulated in the body?

Magnesium is regulated by the kidneys and influenced by dietary sources; it plays a role in many enzymatic processes.

What are the assessment findings of respiratory acidosis?

Assessment findings include shallow or slow respirations, confusion, headache, and decreased SpO₂.

What defines metabolic alkalosis?

Metabolic alkalosis is defined by pH > 7.45 and HCO₃ > 26, often due to loss of acid or excessive bicarbonate.

What is the role of the kidneys in acid-base balance?

The kidneys regulate bicarbonate (HCO₃) to neutralize acids, acting more slowly than the respiratory system.