DECK 3: FLUID IMBALANCES

classic dehydration pattern

• thirst

• rapid, weak pulse

• low BP

• dry skin and mucous membranes

• skin tenting (turgor)

• increased temperature

signs of dehydration

• thirst

• rapid, weak pulse

• decreased urine output

• increased temperature

why does dehydration decrease urine output?

reduced blood volume decreases kidney perfusion

why can dehydration increase body temperature

the body lacks enough water to produce adequate sweat for cooling

major danger of severe dehydration

reduced organ perfusion and possible organ failure

core interventions for deficient fluid volume

monitor daily weight and I&O, increase fluids

classic fluid-excess pattern

• weight gain

• edema

• bounding pulse

• elevated BP

• respiratory changes

signs of fluid excess

• bounding pulse

• elevated BP

• edema

• respiratory changes

• weight gain

• increased urine output

• possible heart failure

why place a fluid-overload patient in fowler position

to improve lung expansion and breathing

core interventions for fluid excess

• monitor weight and urine output

• fowler position

• oxygen

• diuretics

• fluid and sodium restriction

common diuretics listed in unit 6

• furosemide

• spironolactone

• hydrochlorothiazide

• bumetanide