Fluid & Electrolytes

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Questions and Answers

What percentage of your body composition is fluid?

60% (correct)

45%

50%

75%

Which type of fluid accounts for the majority of body fluid, being about two-thirds of total body fluid?

Intracellular fluid (correct)

Transcellular fluid

Extracellular fluid

Interstitial fluid

What is the pH range that indicates normal acid-base balance in body fluids?

7.00-7.30

6.80-7.20

7.35-7.45 (correct)

7.50-8.00

Which of the following ions is classified as a cation?

Sodium Signup and view all the answers

Which mechanism does the body use to maintain acid-base balance?

Chemical, respiratory, and kidney function Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a common cause of hypovolemia?

Diabetes insipidus Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the primary signs of hypovolemia?

Decreased skin turgor Signup and view all the answers

When treating severe hypovolemia, which type of fluid replacement is preferred?

IV isotonic electrolyte solutions Signup and view all the answers

What laboratory finding is typically associated with hypovolemia?

High hemoglobin levels Signup and view all the answers

What nursing intervention is important for preventing hypovolemia in a patient with diarrhea?

Implement antidiarrheal medications Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT associated with hypovolemia?

Decreased pulse rate Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of isotonic fluids in correcting hypovolemia?

To provide electrolytes and increase blood volume Signup and view all the answers

Which condition is characterized by the retention of water and sodium, leading to hypervolemia?

Fluid overload Signup and view all the answers

What is the most severe form of pain experienced in burn victims?

Acute pain Signup and view all the answers

Which medication is commonly used intravenously during the emergent phase of burn care?

Morphine Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary immunologic mechanism involved in allergic reactions?

IgE antibodies Signup and view all the answers

Which method of wound debridement involves removing necrotic tissue using instruments?

Surgical debridement Signup and view all the answers

What common food allergen is known to trigger anaphylaxis?

Peanuts Signup and view all the answers

What are two common manifestations of moderate allergic reactions?

Peripheral tingling and flushing Signup and view all the answers

What serious condition can occur as a result of severe allergic reactions?

Anaphylactic shock Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the role of hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) in burn care?

It promotes wound healing and reduces tissue hypoxia. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an early manifestation of alkalosis?

Paresthesia of the fingers and lips Signup and view all the answers

What lab result is indicative of hypocalcemia?

Calcium level below 9 mg Signup and view all the answers

In treating life-threatening hypocalcemia, which of the following is administered?

Calcium gluconate Signup and view all the answers

Which sign might indicate hypocalcemia or alkalosis during a physical examination?

Positive Chvostek’s sign Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical nursing intervention for a patient receiving IV magnesium sulfate?

Administer no more than 150 mg/min Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following foods should a patient with hypocalcemia incorporate into their diet?

Dark leafy green vegetables Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential risk factor for developing hypomagnesemia?

Chronic laxative use Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary method of treatment for a patient experiencing anaphylaxis?

Epinephrine 1:1000 Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following ECG changes might be seen in a patient with hypomagnesemia?

Widened QRS complex Signup and view all the answers

Which statement about patients predisposed to anaphylaxis is true?

They should wear medical identification to indicate their allergies. Signup and view all the answers

What does the medical management of anaphylaxis depend on?

The severity of the reaction Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following substances is not used as adjunct therapy for anaphylaxis?

Epinephrine Signup and view all the answers

What must be monitored after administering epinephrine for anaphylaxis?

Risk of rebound or delayed reaction Signup and view all the answers

Which symptoms are characteristic of anaphylactic reactions?

Edema and cardiovascular collapse Signup and view all the answers

When assessing a patient for an allergic response, which vital sign is crucial to monitor?

Blood pressure Signup and view all the answers

What is a common requirement for patients who are allergic to insulin?

Continual desensitization therapy Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Fluid and Electrolyte Balance

Fluid and electrolyte balance is essential for life and overall homeostasis.
The human body is approximately 60% fluid, varying by age, body fat, and gender.
Intracellular fluid comprises two-thirds of body fluid, mainly found in skeletal muscle mass.
Extracellular fluid includes:
- Intravascular fluid (plasma, erythrocytes, leukocytes).
- Interstitial fluid (surrounds cells, includes lymph).
- Transcellular fluid (e.g., cerebrospinal fluid).

Electrolytes

Electrolytes are charged ions essential for cellular function.
Major cations include sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and hydrogen ions.
Key anions include chloride, bicarbonate, phosphate, and sulfate.
The sodium-potassium pump is vital for maintaining ion concentration gradients.

Acid-Base Imbalances

Acid-base balance manages hydrogen ion concentration in the body.
pH should be between 7.35 and 7.45; CO2 levels range from 35-45 mmHg, while HCO3 levels are 21-28 mEq/L.
Acidosis occurs with conditions like diarrhea; alkalosis with vomiting.
The body uses chemical, respiratory, and renal mechanisms to maintain this balance.

Hypovolemia

Hypovolemia is the decrease of bodily fluids, often due to vomiting, diarrhea, or reduced intake.
Symptoms include acute weight loss, decreased skin turgor, oliguria, concentrated urine, low blood pressure, confusion, and muscle cramps.
Laboratory findings reveal high hemoglobin and hematocrit, elevated serum and urine osmolality, and decreased urine sodium.
Management involves oral rehydration for mild cases and IV fluids for severe cases, often starting with isotonic solutions.

Hypervolemia

Hypervolemia refers to fluid volume excess due to abnormal retention of water and sodium.
Symptoms include paresthesia, muscle twitches, seizures, and hyperactive deep tendon reflexes.
Calcium levels below 9 mg indicate potential hypocalcemia, while significant ECG changes may occur.
Management comprises calcium supplementation and dietary adjustments emphasizing calcium-rich foods.

Hypomagnesemia

Hypomagnesemia is defined by blood magnesium levels under 1.3 mg/dL.
Contributing factors include gastrointestinal diseases, malnutrition, and certain medications.
Symptoms involve dysrhythmias, tetany, and seizures, along with decreased bowel sounds.
Treatment focuses on magnesium supplementation and dietary intake of magnesium-rich foods.

Allergic Reactions and Anaphylaxis

Allergic reactions stem from hypersensitive immune responses to allergens, often mediated by IgE antibodies.
Anaphylaxis results from immediate hypersensitivity and can be life-threatening, involving systemic reactions across various organ systems.
Common allergens include certain foods, medications, insect stings, and latex.
Mild symptoms may include tingling and nasal congestion, while severe reactions may lead to hypotension and respiratory distress.
Prevention involves strict avoidance of known triggers, and management includes administration of epinephrine and supportive care.

Medical and Nursing Management

In cases of anaphylaxis:
- Immediate assessment of airway, breathing, and circulation is critical.
- Epinephrine is the primary treatment, with adjunct therapies including antihistamines and IV fluids.
Patients should be educated about their allergies and emergency treatments.
Continuous monitoring and follow-up are essential due to potential rebound reactions after an anaphylactic response.

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Description

This quiz focuses on the essential concepts of fluid and electrolyte balance in the human body. Understand the different types of body fluids, their functions, and how to identify imbalances that can affect health and homeostasis. Test your knowledge on intracellular and extracellular fluid components.