Sodium
How is water balance maintained?
ADH (anti-diuretic hormone)
What are some causes of hypokalemia?
increased use of laxatives; inadequate dietary intake of potassium; NPO
What is the biggest cause of hyperkalemia especially in older adults?
salt substitutes often contain potassium
What are the biggest cause of hypocalcemia?
post thyroidectomy
What are some causes of hypomagnesemia?
malnutrition; alcohol ingestion
Aldosterone
What are some signs and symptoms of hypokalemia?
weak irregular pulse; hypotension; muscle cramping; hypoactive reflexes; N/V; PVCs
What is the biggest intervention when treating hyperkalemia?
give regular insulin via IV
What are the signs & symptoms of hypocalcemia?
muscular twitching; positive Chvostek's & Trousseau's Sign
What is the biggest sign and symptoms of hypomagnesemia?
hyperactive DTRs (think opposite)
What is the biggest danger if a patient has hyponatremia?
cerebral edema
What are some treatments or interventions of hypokalemia?
IV infusion of potassium; monitor cardiac function
What is the biggest symptom of hyperkalemia?
metabolic acidosis
What is the biggest danger if a patient has hypocalcemia?
seizures
What are some interventions for low magnesium?
administer IV/oral mag; encouarge foods high in mag
what is the effect of hypernatremia and hyponatremia on deep tendon reflexes?
hyper - diminished or absent
hypo - decreased
Pt is diagnosed digoxin for tachycardia, and arrythmias. What lab's should you be checking? Why?
Potassiam, decreased leads to toxicity, increased lessens affect of dig.
What would you administer to reverse metabolic acidosis?
bicarb
Tumors; overuse of calcium supplements; hyperparathyroidism
What is the biggest cause of hypermagnesemia?
too much mag via medications
encourage sodium intake with foods; restrict water intake
What are the signs and symptoms of Digoxin toxicity?
bradycardia; visual disturbances; vomiting
What is the biggest thing to monitor with Potassium?
What are some signs & symptoms of hypercalcemia?
lethargy; confusion; muscle weakness
What is the biggest sign and symptom of hypermagnesemia?
hyperactive DTRs