Fluid and Electrolytes Flashcards
(17 cards)
What is the total body water percentage in infants?
75%
This percentage is crucial for understanding hydration status in neonates.
What are the components of extracellular fluid (ECF) in infants?
40%
ECF includes intravascular (8%) and interstitial (32%) fluid.
What is the fetal water content at 28 weeks gestation?
85–90%
This high percentage indicates rapid growth and development.
What weight loss is expected for term infants in the first week?
5–10%
Preterm infants may lose up to 15% of their birth weight.
When do term infants typically regain their birth weight?
By 7–10 days
Preterm infants usually regain weight by 2 weeks.
What physiological changes occur postnatally in terms of fluid management?
ECF contracts and diuresis occurs due to increased GFR, renal blood flow, and cardiac output
Natriuresis follows diuresis without sodium supplementation for the first 1–2 days.
What is the initial fluid requirement for neonates?
60–80 mL/kg/day
This may increase by +20 mL/kg/day as needed.
What is the normal urine output for neonates?
1–6 mL/kg/hr
This range is indicative of normal renal function.
What factors contribute to insensible water loss (IWL) in neonates?
Respiratory loss and cutaneous loss
High-risk factors include prematurity, high respiratory rate, low humidity, and phototherapy.
What is the normal range for sodium (Na⁺) in serum electrolytes?
135–145 mEq/L
This is critical for maintaining fluid balance and osmotic pressure.
What are the signs of hyponatremia in neonates?
Irritability, lethargy, apnea, seizures, cerebral edema
These symptoms indicate a severe electrolyte imbalance.
What is the treatment for hyperkalemia?
Stop K infusion, Ca gluconate, NaHCO₃, glucose + insulin, Kayexalate
These treatments help manage high potassium levels and prevent cardiac complications.
What is the normal potassium (K⁺) range in neonates?
3.5–5.5 mEq/L
Maintaining this range is vital for proper cellular function.
What are the signs of hypocalcemia in neonates?
Jitteriness, twitching
These signs may indicate a need for calcium supplementation.
What are the needs for chloride (Cl⁻) in neonates?
2–3 mEq/kg/day
Chloride levels reflect sodium and potassium changes in the body.
What is the impact of metabolic acidosis on chloride levels?
Increased chloride (↑ Cl⁻)
This indicates a compensatory response to acid-base imbalances.
Fill in the blank: The goal of initial fluid management in neonates is to allow ______ loss while maintaining osmolality.
ECF
This is essential for proper hydration and electrolyte balance.
