Electrolyte Imbalances

Question 1

What is an electrolyte imbalance?

Answer 1

A condition where the levels of electrolytes in the body are either too high or too low.

Question 2

Name the primary electrolytes in the human body.

Answer 2

Sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, chloride, bicarbonate, and phosphate.

Question 3

What is hyponatremia?

Answer 3

A condition characterized by low sodium levels in the blood.

Question 4

What is hypernatremia?

Answer 4

A condition characterized by high sodium levels in the blood.

Question 5

What are common causes of hypokalemia?

Answer 5

Diuretics, excessive vomiting, diarrhea, and inadequate dietary intake.

Question 6

What is hyperkalemia?

Answer 6

A condition characterized by high potassium levels in the blood.

Question 7

What is the normal range for serum sodium levels?

Answer 7

135 to 145 mEq/L.

Question 8

What is the normal range for serum potassium levels?

Answer 8

3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L.

Question 9

True or False: Calcium is important for muscle contraction.

Answer 9

True.

Question 10

What is hypocalcemia?

Answer 10

A condition characterized by low calcium levels in the blood.

Question 11

What are common symptoms of hypercalcemia?

Answer 11

Nausea, vomiting, constipation, confusion, and increased thirst.

Question 12

What is the role of magnesium in the body?

Answer 12

It plays a crucial role in muscle and nerve function, blood sugar control, and blood pressure regulation.

Question 13

What is hypomagnesemia?

Answer 13

A condition characterized by low magnesium levels in the blood.

Question 14

What is the primary treatment for severe hypokalemia?

Answer 14

Intravenous potassium replacement.

Question 15

What is the primary treatment for hyperkalemia?

Answer 15

Administering calcium gluconate, insulin, and glucose; or using diuretics.

Question 16

Name a common cause of hypercalcemia.

Answer 16

Primary hyperparathyroidism.

Question 17

What is the recommended dietary intake of potassium for adults?

Answer 17

About 2,500 to 3,000 mg per day.

Question 18

What is the significance of chloride levels in the body?

Answer 18

Chloride helps maintain fluid balance and is essential for digestion.

Question 19

What is hypochloremia?

Answer 19

A condition characterized by low chloride levels in the blood.

Question 20

Fill in the blank: The main treatment for hyponatremia is _______.

Answer 20

Fluid restriction or sodium replacement.

Question 21

True or False: Electrolyte imbalances can lead to cardiac arrhythmias.

Answer 21

True.

Question 22

What nursing education should be provided for patients with electrolyte imbalances?

Answer 22

Educate on dietary sources of electrolytes, medication adherence, and recognizing symptoms.

Question 23

What laboratory tests are used to assess electrolyte levels?

Answer 23

Serum electrolytes panel, including sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium.

Question 24

What is the role of bicarbonate in the body?

Answer 24

It helps maintain acid-base balance and neutralizes acids in the body.

Question 25

What is hyperphosphatemia?

Answer 25

A condition characterized by high phosphate levels in the blood.

Question 26

What is the normal range for serum calcium levels?

Answer 26

8.5 to 10.2 mg/dL.

Question 27

What can cause hypophosphatemia?

Answer 27

Malnutrition, alcoholism, and certain medications.

Question 28

Fill in the blank: The treatment for hypophosphatemia often includes _______.

Answer 28

Phosphate supplements.

Question 29

What is the primary prevention strategy for electrolyte imbalances?

Answer 29

Maintaining a balanced diet and adequate hydration.

Question 30

True or False: Diuretics can cause electrolyte imbalances.

Answer 30

True.

Question 31

What is the clinical significance of monitoring electrolyte levels?

Answer 31

To prevent complications such as cardiac arrest and neurological issues.

Question 32

What are some signs of hyperkalemia?

Answer 32

Muscle weakness, fatigue, palpitations, and numbness.

Question 33

What dietary sources are high in potassium?

Answer 33

Bananas, oranges, potatoes, and spinach.

Question 34

What is the normal range for serum magnesium levels?

Answer 34

1.7 to 2.2 mg/dL.

Question 35

What can excessive sweating lead to in terms of electrolytes?

Answer 35

It can lead to losses of sodium, potassium, and chloride.

Question 36

What is the relationship between dehydration and electrolyte imbalances?

Answer 36

Dehydration can cause concentrations of electrolytes to become elevated.

Question 37

What is the impact of chronic kidney disease on electrolyte balance?

Answer 37

It can lead to imbalances such as hyperkalemia and hyperphosphatemia.

Question 38

What role do aldosterone and ADH play in electrolyte balance?

Answer 38

They help regulate sodium and water reabsorption in the kidneys.

Question 39

Name a symptom of hypocalcemia.

Answer 39

Muscle cramps or spasms.

Question 40

What is the first step in managing an electrolyte imbalance?

Answer 40

Identifying the underlying cause.

Question 41

What is the significance of recognizing early signs of electrolyte imbalances?

Answer 41

Early recognition can prevent severe complications and improve outcomes.

Question 42

What is the effect of acidosis on potassium levels?

Answer 42

Acidosis can cause potassium levels to rise, leading to hyperkalemia.

Question 43

What is the role of potassium in cardiac function?

Answer 43

Potassium is essential for maintaining normal heart rhythm.

Question 44

Fill in the blank: An increase in extracellular sodium can lead to _______.

Answer 44

Fluid retention and hypertension.

Question 45

What is the recommended treatment for severe hypercalcemia?

Answer 45

Hydration, bisphosphonates, or calcitonin.