Fluid Electrolytes, Acids, & Bases

These flashcards cover important vocabulary related to fluid electrolytes, acids, and bases in the human body, preparing for exam review.

Total body water

60% of body weight in adults.

Intracellular fluids

Fluids located inside the cells.

Extracellular fluid

Fluids located outside the cells.

Electrolytes

Charged particles, ions that are dissolved in the body.

Cations

Positively charged ions, e.g., Sodium, Calcium, Potassium, and Magnesium.

Anions

Negatively charged ions, e.g., Chloride, Bicarbonate, and Phosphate.

Edema

Swelling caused by excess fluid in the interstitial space.

Hyponatremia

Condition of lower than normal sodium levels in serum.

Hypernatremia

Condition of higher than normal sodium levels in serum.

Bicarbonate

A key component of the buffer system that helps maintain pH balance.

Acid-base balance

The regulation of acidity and alkalinity within the body.

Renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system

Hormonal system that regulates blood volume and blood pressure.

Hydrostatic pressure

The pressure exerted by fluids within the compartments.

Osmotic pressure

The pressure required to prevent the flow of water across a semi-permeable membrane.

Buffers

Systems that absorb excess H+ or OH- to prevent pH fluctuations.

ADH (Antidiuretic Hormone)

Hormone that helps the body retain water by concentrating urine.

Trousseau's sign

A clinical sign of low calcium levels indicative of tetany.

Muscle cramps

Involuntary contractions often associated with imbalances in electrolytes.

Hypochalemia

Condition of low potassium levels in the blood.

Hyperchalemia

Condition of high potassium levels in the blood.

Kidney stones

Solid deposits formed from minerals and acid salts in the kidneys.