Electrolyte Imbalances
A patient with muscle cramps, tetany, and a positive Chvostek’s sign may have this imbalance.
What is hypocalcemia?
This type of deep, labored breathing is the body’s attempt to compensate for metabolic acidosis, commonly seen in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).
What is Kussmauls respirations?
This isotonic fluid is commonly used for dehydration and hypovolemia.
What is normal saline (0.9% NaCl)?
This medication is used to remove excess potassium from the body by binding it in the GI tract.
What is sodium polystyrene sulfonate (Kayexalate?
This electrolyte imbalance is common in kidney failure and can cause peaked T waves on an ECG.
What is hyperkalemia?
This condition is caused by hypoventilation, leading to CO₂ retention and a decreased pH.
What is respiratory acidosis?
This IV fluid treats severe dehydration and burns because it expands plasma volume.
What is lactated Ringer’s (LR)?
Respiratory alkalosis caused by anxiety-induced hyperventilation can be treated using this simple technique.
What is breathing into a paper bag or controlled breathing techniques?
This electrolyte imbalance is often caused by excessive diuretics and can lead to confusion, seizures, and coma.
What is hyponatremia?
Prolonged vomiting can lead to this acid-base disorder
What is metabolic alkalosis?
This type of IV fluid draws water into the vascular space and is used to treat severe hyponatremia.
What is a hypertonic solution?
This medication is a potassium-sparing diuretic used to treat hypokalemia.
What is spironolactone?
This imbalance can cause torsades de pointes, neuromuscular excitability, and tetany.
What is hypomagnesemia?
A patient with severe diarrhea may develop this acid-base disorder.
What is metabolic acidosis?
Patients receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN) need careful monitoring for this dangerous electrolyte imbalance.
What is hypophosphatemia?
In tumor lysis syndrome, patients are at risk for hyperkalemia, hyperphosphatemia, and uric acid buildup. This drug prevents uric acid formation.
What is allopurinol?
Chronic alcoholics and refeeding syndrome are at high risk for this electrolyte deficiency.
What is hypophosphatemia?
Anxiety, panic attacks, and high-altitude exposure can cause this acid-base disorder
What is respiratory alkalosis?
These IV fluids must be administered slowly to prevent cerebral edema, especially in patients with chronic hyponatremia.
What are hypertonic solutions (e.g., 3% NaCl)?
The fastest way to lower serum potassium in an emergency is this intervention.
What is insulin and dextrose?