Chapter 3: The Cellular Environment: Fluids and Electrolytes Flashcards

These flashcards cover essential terms and concepts from the chapter on fluids and electrolytes, focusing on definitions and physiological roles.

Intracellular Fluid (ICF)

Fluid located inside the cell.

Extracellular Fluid (ECF)

Fluid located outside the cell, including interstitial and intravascular fluids.

Osmolarity

The concentration of molecules per volume of solution, typically used for fluids outside the body.

Osmolality

The concentration of molecules per weight of water, typically used for fluids inside the body.

Hypovolemia

A condition characterized by a deficit in the blood volume of extracellular fluid.

Hypervolemia

A condition characterized by an excess of fluid in the extracellular compartment.

Aldosterone

A hormone that regulates sodium and potassium levels; increases sodium retention and potassium excretion.

Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH)

A hormone that increases water reabsorption in the kidneys, released in response to high plasma osmolality.

Hyponatremia

A condition where serum sodium levels drop below 135 mEq/L, leading to plasma hypoosmolality and cellular swelling.

Hyperkalemia

A condition where potassium levels exceed 5.0 mEq/L, potentially causing cardiac complications.

Calcium

An electrolyte essential for muscle contraction, bone health, and blood clotting.

Isotonic solution

A solution that has the same concentration of solutes as blood plasma, thus maintaining the balance of fluids.

Edema

The accumulation of fluid in the interstitial spaces of tissues, often due to increased capillary hydrostatic pressure.

Natriuretic Peptides

Hormones released in response to increased blood volume and pressure; they promote sodium excretion.

Hypocalcemia

A condition characterized by low calcium levels in the blood, which can lead to increased neuromuscular excitability.

Hyperphosphatemia

A condition characterized by high phosphate levels in the blood, often linked to renal failure.

Hypomagnesemia

A deficiency of magnesium in the blood, which can cause neuromuscular irritability and tetany.