Lecture Notes on Fluid and Electrolytes

Introduction

• Importance of fluid and electrolyte balance in the body.
• 70% of the body is composed of water.
• Electrolytes are essential for various body functions.

Key Electrolytes

• Six main electrolytes: Potassium, Sodium, Chloride, Calcium, Phosphate, and Magnesium.
• They dissolve in water and become ions, critical for electrical signaling.

Functions of Electrolytes

• Muscle contraction, nerve impulses, bone creation.
• Fluid balance via osmosis, acid-base balance.

Maintenance of Electrolyte Balance

• Obtained from food and absorbed in the gut.
• Kidneys filter blood, adjusting electrolyte levels.
• Renal issues can cause imbalances; dialysis may be required.

Factors Affecting Electrolyte Levels

• Trauma, blood loss, burns, vomiting, diarrhea, diseases affecting hormones (e.g., aldosterone, ADH).

Sodium (Na⁺)

• Normal range: 135-145 mEq/L.
• Hyponatremia: <135, caused by diuretics, GI issues, Addison’s disease, SIADH.
• Hypernatremia: >145, caused by Cushing’s, dehydration, diabetes insipidus.
• Symptoms: Seizures, stupor, lethargy, muscle spasms, thirst.

Chloride (Cl⁻)

• Normal range: 95-105 mEq/L.
• Hypochloremia: Caused by GI losses, diuretics, cystic fibrosis, metabolic alkalosis.
• Hyperchloremia: Caused by sodium imbalances, dehydration, metabolic acidosis.

Potassium (K⁺)

• Normal range: 3.5-5 mEq/L.
• Hypokalemia: Caused by loop diuretics, insulin, Cushing’s syndrome.
• Hyperkalemia: Caused by burns, Addison’s disease, renal failure.
• Symptoms: Muscle weakness, arrhythmias, fatigue.

Calcium (Ca²⁺)

• Normal range: 8.5-10.5 mg/dL.
• Hypocalcemia: Caused by parathyroid issues, low vitamin D.
• Hypercalcemia: Caused by hyperparathyroidism, cancer, thiazide diuretics.
• Symptoms: Muscle spasms, convulsions, arrhythmias.

Magnesium (Mg²⁺)

• Normal range: 1.5-2.5 mg/dL.
• Hypomagnesemia: Caused by malabsorption, alcoholism.
• Hypermagnesemia: Caused by excessive supplementation, renal dysfunction.
• Symptoms: Lethargy, muscle weakness, ECG changes.

Phosphate (PO₄³⁻)

• Normal range: 2.5-4.5 mg/dL.
• Hypophosphatemia: Caused by antacid overuse, refeeding syndrome.
• Hyperphosphatemia: Caused by renal failure, hypoparathyroidism.
• Symptoms: Bone pain, neuro changes, erythrocyte destruction.

Conclusion

• Understanding electrolytes is crucial for nursing care.
• Be aware of signs and symptoms for effective diagnosis and treatment.
• Access further resources for detailed individual electrolyte management.