Electrolyte Imbalances
This electrolyte imbalance is characterized by muscle weakness, fatigue, and arrhythmias.
hypokalemia
This type of IV solution is commonly used to replace lost extracellular fluid and contains water, sodium, and chloride.
normal saline (0.9% NaCl)
Normal range is 135-145
sodium
This process helps maintain the pH balance by excreting hydrogen ions and reabsorbing bicarbonate.
renal compensation
A nurse would monitor this vital sign closely in a patient at risk for fluid overload.
blood pressure
A patient with prolonged vomiting might be at risk for this electrolyte imbalance.
hypochloremia
This type of IV solution is hypotonic and used to treat dehydration by moving water into the cells.
Half normal saline (0.45% NaCl)
Normal range for calcium
8.5-10
This condition occurs when the blood pH falls below 7.35.
acidosis
This nursing intervention is important for a patient receiving an IV solution of potassium.
monitoring IV site for infiltration or phlebitis
This electrolyte imbalance is associated with confusion, muscle twitching, and tetany.
hypocalcemia
This isotonic solution contains glucose and is used for both hydration and energy.
D5W
What electrolyte invoices the heart
K (potassium)
A common cause of metabolic alkalosis is prolonged use of this type of medication.
diuretics
A nurse should assess this physical sign to evaluate for dehydration.
skin turgor
Hyperkalemia can lead to this life-threatening complication.
cardiac arrest
This solution is used to expand blood volume and is made of protein-rich fluids, often derived from plasma.
albumin
This blood test measures the acid-base status and is essential in assessing respiratory and metabolic conditions.
ABG (arterial blood gas)
This breathing pattern is seen in patients with respiratory acidosis as a compensatory mechanism.
Kussmaul's respirations
A common nursing intervention when administering hypertonic solutions is to monitor for this.
fluid overload
A condition marked by low sodium levels in the blood, which can lead to confusion and seizures.
hyponatremia
This IV solution is used to correct severe electrolyte imbalances like hyperkalemia because it shifts potassium into the cells.
D50 (with insulin)
A value above 30 mg/dL for this lab result could indicate dehydration.
hematocrit
The primary buffer system that helps maintain the pH balance of the blood is the combination of this.
Bicarb buffer system
When a patient has hyponatremia, it is important for the nurse to monitor for this neurological symptom.
seizures