Sodium
What is the normal sodium range?
135-145
What is the normal potassium range?
3.5-5
What is the normal pH range of arterial blood?
7.35-7.45
What electrolyte imbalance often causes tetany and positive Chvostek’s sign?
hypocalcemia
This electrolyte imbalance is commonly caused by vomiting and loop diuretics.
Hypokalemia
Name two neurological symptoms of hyponatremia.
Confusion, headache, seizures
What cardiac abnormality can hyperkalemia cause?
Peaked T waves, arrhythmias
What acid-base disorder is caused by vomiting?
Metabolic alkalosis
Which electrolyte is important for neuromuscular and cardiac function?
Potassium
Tingling, muscle cramps, and a positive Trousseau’s sign are signs of this imbalance.
Hypocalcemia
What causes hypernatremia? Name one condition.
Dehydration, diabetes insipidus, excessive sodium intake
Why must potassium never be given IV push?
It can cause fatal cardiac arrest
What electrolyte imbalance is associated with metabolic acidosis?
Hyperkalemia
What’s a common symptom of fluid overload?
Edema, crackles, elevated BP, weight gain
This imbalance is treated with IV calcium gluconate and ECG monitoring.
Hyperkalemia
What fluid is commonly used to correct hyponatremia?
Hypertonic saline (e.g., 3% NaCl) — used cautiously
List one cause of hypokalemia.
Diuretics, vomiting, diarrhea, insulin
A patient has the following ABG results: pH 7.30, PaCO₂ 50 mmHg, HCO₃⁻ 24. What is the acid-base imbalance?
respiratory acidosis
Name one priority intervention for a patient with hyperkalemia.
Administer calcium gluconate, insulin/glucose, kayexalate
A patient with chronic alcoholism is at high risk for this electrolyte deficiency.
Hypomagnesemia
A patient has a sodium level of 148 mEq/L, dry mucous membranes, restlessness, and is post-op with restricted oral intake. What imbalance is present, and what are two nursing interventions?
What is hypernatremia; interventions include monitoring neuro status, providing free water or hypotonic fluids as ordered, and ensuring safe environment to prevent injury.
Name a nursing priority when administering IV potassium.
Use a pump, monitor ECG, dilute properly, check renal function
A patient in renal failure has the following ABG: pH 7.29, PaCO₂ 38 mmHg, HCO₃⁻ 16.
Metabolic acidosis
What is the best indicator of overall fluid balance in a hospitalized patient?
Weight daily
This imbalance causes lethargy, weakness, and deep tendon reflex depression, often due to overuse of antacids.
Hypermagnesemia