Oh NO!
Electrifying Electrolytes
Balancing Act
Tools of the Trade
IV League
100

This complication occurs when a non-vesicant fluid/medication leaks into the surrounding tissue causing swelling and discomfort.

What is infiltration?

100

This electrolyte helps regulate fluid balance and is the most abundant cation in extracellular fluid; its normal serum level is about 135 to 145 mEq/L.

What is sodium (Na+)?

100

These cues would cause a nurse to generate a hypothesis of fluid volume excess.

What is dyspnea, crackles on lung exam, dependent edema, and sudden weight gain?

100

This type of pump allows patients to self-administer pain medications within prescribed limits, providing a greater control over their pain management.

What is a patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) pump?

100

This type of IV fluid has the same osmolarity as blood plasma and helps maintain fluid balance.

What is an isotonic fluid?

200

This serious complication may occur when a vesicant fluid/medication leaks into the surrounding tissues causing stinging, burning, swelling, redness, blisters or ulcers.

What is extravasation?

200

This electrolyte is crucial for muscle contraction and is often associated with heart function; it is the most abundant cation in intracellular fluid.

What is potassium (K+)?

200

This condition is characterized by symptoms such as excessive thirst, significant weight loss (more than 2.2 kg/day) and dry mucous membranes.

What is fluid volume deficit?

200

This catheter is placed directly into the CSF, between the dura and the spinal cord. It has the most rapid onset of action of all anesthetic approaches, but the shortest duration.

What is intrathecal catheter or analgesia?

200

This IV fluid is used to treat hyponatremia and contains a higher concentration of solutes than plasma, causing cells to shrink.

What is a hypertonic fluid?

300

This condition could be caused if the nurse leaves too much air in the tubing when priming it.

What is an air embolism?

300

This class of diuretics often causes hypokalemia.

What is potassium-wasting diuretics or loop diuretics, or thiazides?

300

This state of health is indicated by stable weights, moist mucous membranes, and equal input and output of fluids.

What is normal fluid balance?

300

This technique reduces the need to connect and disconnect the secondary intermittent administration sets, therefore reducing the risk of infection.

What is backflushing or back priming?

300

This IV fluid contains a lower concentration of solutes than plasma and is used for hydration, causing cells to swell.

What is a hypotonic fluid?

400

This condition is characterized by a localized infection at the IV site, often presenting with redness, warmth, and tenderness.

What is phlebitis?

400

This electrolyte plays a vital role in bone health and muscle function, and it is commonly found in dairy products; its normal serum level ranges from 8.5 to 10.5 mg/dL.

What is calcium (Ca++)?

400

Name the two major compartments in the body where fluid is found.

What are intracellular and extracellular spaces?

400

These devices are used in addition to the primary dressing to stabilize and secure VADs (vascular access devices).

What are securement devices?

400

This type of IV solution provides both hydration and electrolytes, commonly used for patients with ongoing fluid loss.

What is Lactated Ringer's solution?

500

This systemic complication can occur from the rapid infusion of IV fluids, and is associated with symptoms such as hypertension and edema.

What is fluid overload?

500

These foods are rich in potassium. 

What are potatoes (baked with skin), sweet potatoes, bananas, brazil nuts, and kiwi?

500

This term refers to the fluid loss that occurs through evaporation from the skin and respiration, which is not easily measured but can significantly impact overall hydration status.

What are insensible losses?

500

This safety device on IV tubing keeps IV fluids from free flowing. 

What is the roller clamp?

500

This type of IV solution is used to expand intravascular space, with common examples being albumin and hespan?

What are colloid solutions?