Electrolytes Flashcards
(75 cards)
1
Q
What is the sodium level that indicates hypernatremia?
A
> 145 mEq/L
2
Q
What mnemonic is used to remember the signs of hypernatremia?
A
FRIED SALT
3
Q
List three signs or symptoms of hypernatremia.
A
- Flushed skin
- Restless, anxious, confused, irritable
- Increased BP & fluid retention
4
Q
What does the phrase ‘Where sodium goes, water flows’ imply?
A
If there is a lot of sodium in the vessels, there will also be a lot of water in the vessels.
5
Q
What are two ways sodium can be ingested?
A
- Oral ingestion
- Administration of IV fluids with sodium
6
Q
What is a common cause of sodium loss leading to hypernatremia?
A
- Fever
- Burns
- Diabetes insipidus (DI)
7
Q
What is the sodium level that indicates hyponatremia?
A
< 135 mEq/L
8
Q
What mnemonic is used to remember the signs of hyponatremia?
A
SALT LOSS
9
Q
List three signs or symptoms of hyponatremia.
A
- Stupor/coma
- Anorexia (nausea/vomiting)
- Lethargy (weakness/fatigue)
10
Q
What are the two types of hyponatremia?
A
- Hypovolemic
- Hypervolemic
11
Q
What is a common cause of hypovolemic hyponatremia?
A
- Loss of sodium from diaphoresis
- Diarrhea & vomiting
- Diuretics
12
Q
What is a common cause of hypervolemic hyponatremia?
A
Excess levels of water in the body which dilutes sodium
13
Q
What is the treatment for hypernatremia?
A
- Restrict sodium intake
- Administer IV fluids if due to fluid loss (isotonic or hypotonic solutions)
14
Q
What should be done for a patient with hyponatremia?
A
Treat the underlying cause.
15
Q
What precautions should be taken for a patient with seizures due to hyponatremia?
A
Place the patient on seizure precautions.
16
Q
Fill in the blank: Hypertonic solutions contain ______ amounts of salt.
A
high
17
Q
True or False: It is safe to give food or water to a patient who is lethargic, confused, or in a comatose state.
A
False
18
Q
What should be done if a patient is in fluid volume overload due to SIADH?
A
Place the patient on fluid restriction.
19
Q
What is the potassium level that indicates hyperkalemia?
A
> 5 mEq/L
Hyperkalemia is characterized by muscle contractions that last too long and can lead to severe complications.
20
Q
What does the acronym ‘MURDER’ represent in the context of hyperkalemia symptoms?
A
- Muscle cramps & weakness
- Urine abnormalities
- Respiratory distress
- Decreased cardiac contractility
- EKG changes
- Reflexes (+ DTR)
These symptoms are critical for identifying hyperkalemia in patients.
21
Q
What are EKG changes associated with hyperkalemia?
A
Tall, peaked T-waves
Hyperkalemia can lead to distinctive changes in heart rhythm observable on an EKG.
22
Q
What is the potassium level that indicates hypokalemia?
A
< 3.5 mEq/L
Hypokalemia can lead to significant muscle weakness and other systemic issues.
23
Q
List some symptoms of hypokalemia.
A
- Generalized weakness in muscles
- Weak muscles & less contraction
- Shallow breathing
- Slowing of GI system (constipation)
- Nausea, vomiting, bloating
- EKG changes
These symptoms reflect the consequences of low potassium levels on bodily functions.
24
Q
What EKG changes can occur with hypokalemia?
A
Flattened T-wave or conversion of the T-wave
These changes can also indicate underlying cardiac issues.
25
What are some causes of hyperkalemia?
* Intake of too much potassium (e.g., IV fluids with K)
* Adrenal gland issues (insufficiency)
* High levels of acid in blood (acidosis)
* NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen)
* Potassium-sparing diuretics (e.g., spironolactone)
## Footnote
Understanding the causes helps in managing and preventing hyperkalemia.
26
What are some causes of hypokalemia?
* Low potassium intake (not eating, NPO diet)
* Vomiting & diarrhea
* Gastric suction
* Alkalosis
* Potassium-wasting diuretics (loop or thiazide)
## Footnote
Identifying these causes is crucial for treatment and prevention.
27
What is the primary treatment for hyperkalemia?
Stop potassium intake and administer medications like sodium bicarbonate and IV calcium gluconate
## Footnote
Timely treatment can prevent life-threatening complications.
28
What monitoring is necessary for both potassium imbalances?
EKG monitoring
## Footnote
Cardiac dysrhythmias are a significant risk in both hyperkalemia and hypokalemia.
29
What is the recommended method for administering potassium?
Always dilute in fluid and infuse slowly
## Footnote
Potassium can irritate veins and cause complications if administered too quickly.
30
What is the normal calcium level in the blood?
11 mg/dL
## Footnote
Normal calcium levels are typically around 8.5 to 10.5 mg/dL.
31
What condition is indicated by calcium levels greater than 11 mg/dL?
HYPERCALCEMIA
## Footnote
Hypercalcemia can lead to various symptoms and complications.
32
List the signs and symptoms of hypercalcemia.
* Bone pain
* Arrhythmias
* Cardiac arrest (bounding pulses)
* Kidney stones
* Muscle weakness
* Excessive urination
## Footnote
Kidney stones are also called renal calculi.
33
What condition is indicated by calcium levels less than 9 mg/dL?
HYPOCALCEMIA
## Footnote
Hypocalcemia can cause various neurological and muscular symptoms.
34
What does the acronym 'CATS GO NUMB' represent in hypocalcemia?
* C: Convulsions/seizures
* A: Arrhythmias
* T: Tetany
* S: Spasms & stridor
* GO NUMB: Numbness in fingers, face, limbs
## Footnote
This acronym helps remember the symptoms associated with low calcium levels.
35
What is a positive Trousseau's sign?
Carpal spasm caused by inflating a blood pressure cuff
## Footnote
This sign indicates hypocalcemia.
36
What is Chvostek's sign?
Contraction of facial muscles with a light tap over the facial nerve
## Footnote
This sign is another indicator of hypocalcemia.
37
What are some risk factors for hypercalcemia?
* Kidney disease
* Use of thiazide diuretics
* HYPERparathyroidism & HYPERthyroidism
* Bone breakdown from metastatic cancer
* Highly concentrated blood (hemoconcentration)
## Footnote
Dehydration can also contribute to hemoconcentration.
38
What conditions can lead to hypocalcemia?
* Issues absorbing calcium from the GI tract
* Too much calcium leaving the body from excretion
* Kidney disease
* Diuretics
* Diarrhea
* Drainage from wounds
## Footnote
Phosphorus and low vitamin D levels can also contribute to hypocalcemia.
39
What is the primary treatment for hypercalcemia?
STOP calcium intake (IV or PO)
## Footnote
Additional treatments may include administering medications to lower calcium levels.
40
What medication helps tone down calcium levels in the blood?
Calcitonin
## Footnote
Calcitonin is used to reduce elevated calcium levels.
41
What dietary recommendations can help manage calcium levels?
* Calcium intake in diet
* Calcium supplements
* Vitamin D
* Calcium gluconate
## Footnote
Adequate vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption.
42
What precautions should be initiated for a patient with hypocalcemia?
Initiate seizure precautions
## Footnote
Patients with low calcium levels are at high risk for seizures.
43
What is the condition characterized by magnesium levels greater than 2.5 mg/dL?
HYPERMAGNESEMIA
## Footnote
Symptoms include sedation, decreased deep tendon reflexes, drowsiness, bradycardia, hypotension, bradypnea, shallow respirations, and reduced bowel sounds.
44
What are the signs of hypermagnesemia?
LOW everything - SEDATED
## Footnote
This includes diminished deep tendon reflexes, energy levels, heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, and bowel sounds.
45
What is the condition characterized by magnesium levels less than 1.5 mg/dL?
HYPOMAGNESEMIA
## Footnote
Symptoms include increased excitability, hyperreflexia, tachycardia, hypertension, shallow respirations, twitches, paresthesias, tetany, seizures, irritability, and confusion.
46
What are the signs of hypomagnesemia?
HIGH everything - NOT SEDATED
## Footnote
This includes increased deep tendon reflexes, heart rate, blood pressure, and various neuromuscular symptoms.
47
What is the relationship between calcium and magnesium levels?
Ca & Mg rise and fall together!
## Footnote
This indicates that changes in one can affect the other.
48
What are some risk factors that can lead to hypermagnesemia?
* Increased magnesium intake
* Magnesium-containing antacids & laxatives
* Excessive administration of magnesium IV
* Renal insufficiency
* Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)
## Footnote
These factors can lead to elevated magnesium levels in the blood.
49
What are common causes of hypomagnesemia?
* Insufficient magnesium intake
* Malnutrition/vomiting/diarrhea
* Malabsorption syndrome
* Increased magnesium excretion
* Diuretics or chronic alcoholism
* Hyperglycemia & insulin administration
* Sepsis
## Footnote
These conditions can contribute to decreased magnesium levels in the body.
50
What is a positive Trousseau's sign?
Carpal spasm caused by inflating a blood pressure cuff
## Footnote
This sign indicates hypocalcemia or hypomagnesemia.
51
What is Chvostek's sign?
Contraction of facial muscles with a light tap over the facial nerve
## Footnote
This sign suggests hypocalcemia and is often associated with magnesium deficiency.
52
What are some treatment options for hypermagnesemia?
* Restrict dietary intake of magnesium-containing foods
* Avoid the use of laxatives & antacids containing magnesium
* Use of hemodialysis in severe cases
* Administration of calcium chloride or calcium gluconate
## Footnote
These treatments aim to reduce magnesium levels in the body.
53
What are some treatment options for hypomagnesemia?
* Administer magnesium sulfate IV or PO
* Place patient on seizure precautions
* Instruct patient to increase intake of magnesium-containing foods
## Footnote
Foods rich in magnesium include nuts, seeds, legumes, whole grains, and milk.
54
What is the phosphorus level that indicates hyperphosphatemia?
> 4.5 mg/dL
## Footnote
Hyperphosphatemia is characterized by elevated phosphate levels in the blood, which can lead to various health issues.
55
What condition directly results from hyperphosphatemia?
Hypocalcemia
## Footnote
Hypocalcemia is a condition of low calcium levels in the blood, often resulting from elevated phosphate levels.
56
List three symptoms of hyperphosphatemia.
* Muscle spasms & tetany
* Cardiac arrhythmias
* Seizures
## Footnote
These symptoms arise due to the imbalance of calcium and phosphorus in the body.
57
What is the phosphorus level that indicates hypophosphatemia?
< 2.5 mg/dL
## Footnote
Hypophosphatemia is characterized by low phosphate levels in the blood.
58
List three symptoms of hypophosphatemia.
* Fatigue & weakness
* Delayed growth & development in children
* Poor bone density & frequent fractures
## Footnote
These symptoms are indicative of insufficient phosphate in the body, affecting energy and bone health.
59
What are two risk factors for phosphorus imbalance?
* Kidney dysfunction
* Consistent use of enemas and/or laxatives
## Footnote
Both factors can disrupt the body's ability to regulate phosphate levels.
60
True or False: Rhabdomyolysis can be a risk factor for phosphorus imbalance.
True
## Footnote
Rhabdomyolysis can lead to elevated phosphate levels due to muscle breakdown.
61
What dietary modification can be made for patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD)?
Use dialysis
## Footnote
Dialysis helps to filter excess phosphate from the blood in patients with kidney failure.
62
Fill in the blank: Foods that are high in phosphorus include _______.
Red meat, beans, dairy products, nuts, & lentils
## Footnote
These foods contribute to the phosphorus intake in the diet.
63
What should be monitored to control phosphorus levels in patients?
Hypertension
## Footnote
Managing hypertension helps maintain kidney function, which is crucial for phosphorus regulation.
64
What is a treatment consideration for patients with a history of starvation?
Reintroduce nutrients slowly
## Footnote
This approach is necessary to prevent refeeding syndrome, which can occur with rapid nutrient reintroduction.
65
What is the inverse relationship mentioned in the content?
Ca* and P
## Footnote
Calcium and phosphate levels in the body are inversely related, meaning that as one increases, the other typically decreases.
66
What is the condition characterized by chloride levels exceeding 105 mEq/L?
HYPERCHLOREMIA
## Footnote
Associated with hypertension, fluid retention, generalized swelling, peripheral edema, cardiac arrhythmias, and hypernatremia.
67
What are some symptoms of HYPERCHLOREMIA?
* Hypertension
* Fluid retention
* Generalized swelling
* Peripheral edema
* Cardiac arrhythmias
* Hypernatremia
## Footnote
Additional symptoms may include renal damage and dehydration.
68
What are the common causes of HYPERCHLOREMIA?
* Overuse of IV sodium chloride
* Metabolic acidosis
* Renal damage
* Dehydration
* Uncontrolled glucose levels
* Diabetes insipidus
## Footnote
Renal damage occurs when kidneys fail to filter and excrete excess chloride.
69
What is the condition characterized by chloride levels falling below 95 mEq/L?
HYPOCHLOREMIA
## Footnote
Symptoms can be similar to those of hyponatremia.
70
What are some symptoms of HYPOCHLOREMIA?
* Hypotension
* Tachycardia
* Mental status changes
* Muscle weakness
* Fatigue
## Footnote
Symptoms can overlap with those of low sodium levels.
71
What are the common causes of HYPOCHLOREMIA?
* Dehydration from fluid loss (vomiting, diarrhea)
* Syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH)
* Overuse of diuretics
* Addison's Disease
* Metabolic alkalosis
* Excessive suctioning of gastric contents
* Potassium imbalance
## Footnote
Each of these factors can lead to significant electrolyte imbalances.
72
What are some dietary modifications for managing HYPERCHLOREMIA?
* Sodium restriction
* Fluids to flush salt
* Oral or IV fluids
* Blood glucose management or insulin
* Dialysis in renal disease patients
## Footnote
These modifications aim to restore electrolyte balance and manage fluid levels.
73
What are some dietary modifications for managing HYPOCHLOREMIA?
* Dietary salt intake with meals
* Administer IV potassium
* Administer IV sodium chloride
* Rehydration
* Limit or reduce diuretic use
## Footnote
These interventions help to restore chloride and sodium levels in the body.
74
True or False: An increase in chloride concentration is associated with an increase in sodium levels.
True
## Footnote
The relationship indicates that as chloride increases, sodium levels tend to rise as well.
75
Fill in the blank: A chloride level of less than _______ mEq/L indicates hypochloremia.
95
## Footnote
This threshold is critical for diagnosing hypochloremia.
