Electrolytes in Fluid and Electrolyte Balance

Flashcards covering key electrolyte concepts including normal ranges, functions, and abnormalities.

Sodium (Na+)

An electrolyte that controls fluid osmolality, helps regulate muscle contraction, and stimulates electrical nerve impulses.

Normal range of Sodium (Na+)

135-145 mEq/L.

Hypernatremia

A condition with sodium levels greater than 145 mEq/L.

Symptoms of Hypernatremia

Thirst, elevated temperature, sticky mucous membranes, dry mouth, flushed skin, lethargy, restlessness, oliguria, irritability, hallucinations, seizures.

Hypernatremia causes

Diabetes insipidus, heat stroke, watery diarrhea, excess use of steroids, sodium chloride or bicarbonate.

Hyponatremia

A condition with sodium levels less than 135 mEq/L.

Symptoms of Hyponatremia

Anorexia, nausea, vomiting, headache, lethargy, muscle weakness or twitching, poor skin turgor, tremors, seizures, optic nerve swelling.

Causes of Hyponatremia

GI suctioning, vomiting/diarrhea, high blood sugars, congestive heart failure (CHF), renal disease, adrenal insufficiency, excess D5W IV infusion, diabetes insipidus, too many tap water enemas, excess diaphoresis.

Chloride (Cl-) normal range

97-107 mEq/L.

Hyperchloremia

A condition with chloride levels greater than 107 mEq/L.

Hypochloremia

A condition with chloride levels less than 97 mEq/L.

Potassium (K+) normal range

3.5-5.0 mEq/L.

Hyperkalemia

A condition with potassium levels greater than 5.0 mEq/L.

Hypokalemia

A condition with potassium levels less than 3.5 mEq/L.

Magnesium (Mg2+) normal range

1.6-2.6 mEq/L.

Hypermagnesemia

A condition with magnesium levels greater than 2.6 mEq/L.

Hypomagnesemia

A condition with magnesium levels less than 1.6 mEq/L.

Calcium (Ca2+) normal range

8.2-10.2 mg/dL.

Hypercalcemia

A condition with calcium levels greater than 10.2 mg/dL.

Hypocalcemia

A condition with calcium levels less than 8.2 mg/dL.

Phosphorus (PO4^3-) normal range

2.5-4.5 mg/dL.

Hyperphosphatemia

A condition with phosphorus levels greater than 4.5 mg/dL.

Hypophosphatemia

A condition with phosphorus levels less than 2.5 mg/dL.