fluid and electrolyte terms

acid-base balance

The homeostasis of acidic and basic (alkaline) compounds in the blood to

maintain a blood pH of between 7.35 and 7.45

antidiuretic hormone (ADH)

A hormone excreted by the hypothalamus in the brain that maintains blood

pressure and fluid volume. Also known as vasopressin

circulatory overload

A complication of IV therapy in which too much fluid is administered too

quickly.

dehydration

excess water loss without a loss of sodium

diffusion

movement of solutes from an area of higher concentration to one of lower concentration

diuretics

a category of medications that cause increased urination

edema

swelling due to excess fluid

electrolytes

minerals in the body that conduct electricity

extracellular space

The space outside the cell that includes the interstitial and intravascular

areas

homeostasis

state of equilibrium

hypercalcemia

calcium levels above expected reference range of 9 to 10.5 mg/dL

hypermagnesemia

Magnesium level above expected reference range of 1.3 to 2.1 mEq/L.

hypertonic

A solution that has more solutes than are present within the cell and results

in fluid movement out of the cell

potassium

Electrolyte for nerve and muscle function, especially for the heart.

tonicity

A solution's ability to make water move in our out of cells; includes isotonic,

hypotonic, and hypertonic solutions