Lab Values & Monitoring
Normal sodium range.
What is 135–145 mEq/L?
This is the fluid compartment where most body fluid is stored.
What is intracellular fluid?
This type of IV fluid has the same osmolality as blood.
What is isotonic?
Normal potassium level.
What is 3.5–5.0 mEq/L?
Normal blood pH range.
What is 7.35–7.45?
This lab indicates kidney function and affects fluid balance.
What is creatinine or BUN?
Name one common cause of fluid volume deficit
What is vomiting, diarrhea, or burns?
Example of a hypotonic IV solution.
What is 0.45% normal saline?
Positive Chvostek’s sign is a sign of this electrolyte imbalance.
What is hypocalcemia?
This condition causes Kussmaul respirations.
What is metabolic acidosis?
This ABG component reflects metabolic function
What is bicarbonate (HCO₃)?
Two key signs of fluid overload.
What are edema and crackles?
Redness, swelling, and a burning IV site indicates this.
What is phlebitis?
Tall peaked T waves indicate this imbalance.
What is hyperkalemia?
ABG: pH 7.50, PaCO₂ 30, HCO₃ 24
What is respiratory alkalosis?
Two electrolytes often replaced together.
What are calcium and magnesium?
The best daily indicator of fluid balance in a patient
What is daily weight?
IV complication where fluid leaks into surrounding tissue.
What is infiltration?
Electrolyte often low in chronic alcoholics.
What is magnesium?
Name one cause of metabolic alkalosis.
What is vomiting or excessive antacid use?
In respiratory acidosis, this gas is elevated.
What is carbon dioxide (CO₂ or PaCO₂)?
Fluid volume excess is most dangerous in this type of patient.
Who is a patient with heart failure or renal failure?
This life-threatening IV complication causes SOB and chest pain
What is air embolism?
You give calcium gluconate to treat this serious electrolyte imbalance.
What is hypermagnesemia or hypocalcemia?
Condition that shows pH 7.29, PaCO₂ 52, HCO₃ 26
What is respiratory acidosis?