Fluids
The four normal routes of fluid loss from the body.
Skin, lungs, GI tract, kidneys
The route through which electrolytes enter the body.
The digestive tract
The normal pH range of the human body.
7.35 - 7.45
What does ABG stand for?
Arterial blood gas
Three patient groups at high risk for fluid, electrolyte, or acid-base imbalances
Young, old, severely ill
The mechanism that drives thirst based on vascular volume.
Baroreceptors
The most abundant electrolyte found in the body.
Calcium
Acid produced when carbon dioxide combines with water.
Carbonic acid (H2CO3)
The healthcare provider who usually performs blood draws for ABG test
Respiratory therapist
Acid-base imbalance possible as a result of severe hyperventilation
Respiratory alkalosis
The body compartment containing approximately 2/3 or 63% of body fluids.
Intracellular compartment
The passive movement of electrolytes or other particles from an area of higher concentration to one of lower concentration.
Diffusion
The chemical composition of bicarbonate
HCO3-
The first value to consider when analyzing an ABG
pH
Acid-base imbalance that a patient with severe diarrhea over several days might experience.
Metabolic acidosis
The movement of fluid through a membrane from areas of low concentration to areas of high concentration between extra- and intracellular compartments.
Osmosis
Medications that result in losses of potassium
Potassium-wasting diuretics (furosemide, thiazides)
The 3 balance mechanisms to maintain acid-base homeostasis
Acid production, acid buffering, acid excretion
The normal range of pCO2 levels in the blood.
35-45 mmHg
Four signs that might indicate dehydration
(More than 4 exist): Dark urine, decreased urine output, dry mucus membranes, bad breath, sunken eyes & cheeks, confusion, muscle cramps, listlessness
Hormone that influences how much water is excreted in urine.
Antidiuretic hormone (ADH)
Contraction of facial muscles when facial nerve is tapped; due to hypocalcemia or hypomagnesemia.
Chvostek sign
Two acid excretion mechanisms in the body.
Lungs and kidneys
The pH trend when HCO3 levels are elevated
Alkalosis
Assessment indications that a patient's level of consciousness has decreased
Lethargy, confusion, coma