Nursing Care for Hypervolemia

Electrolytes are substances that carry an electrical charge when dissolved in fluid. They play a crucial role in various bodily functions including nerve impulse transmission, muscle contraction and fluid balance.

Acids release hydrogen ions (H+) into fluids, making them more acidic. Bases or alkalis bind with hydrogen ions, thus reducing acidity.

Body fluids are composed of water and chemicals, including electrolytes, acids, and bases. Their primary function is to regulate fluid volume, buffer blood pH, and ensure essential physiological processes.

Intracellular fluid (ICF) is the fluid located within cells and accounts for 35%-40% of the total body water. Extracellular fluid (ECF) is the fluid outside cells, comprising interstitial fluid (fluid between cells) and intravascular fluid (plasma).

The average daily fluid intake for adults is around 2500 mL, ranging from 1800 to 3600 mL. It's replenished through food and liquids. Fluid elimination occurs through urination, bowel movements, sweating, and breathing.

Translocation of fluid and exchange of chemicals is a continuous process. It involves osmosis, filtration, passive diffusion, facilitated diffusion, and active transport. These ensure proper fluid and electrolyte balance.

Osmoreceptors in the brain sense blood concentration and trigger ADH release to regulate water retention. Baroreceptors detect blood pressure changes. The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system increases BP and blood volume. Natriuretic peptides, ANP and BNP, increase urine production.

Hypovolemia is a decrease in extracellular fluid volume, which may be caused by vomiting, diarrhea, wounds, or excessive urination. Dehydration occurs when both extracellular and intracellular fluids are depleted, leading to a decrease in overall body water.

Patients with fluid and electrolyte imbalances require comprehensive assessment and monitoring, including vital signs, daily weights, urine output, and laboratory tests to evaluate electrolyte levels and acid-base status.

Treating fluid and electrolyte imbalances involves addressing the underlying cause, replacing lost fluids and electrolytes through IV fluids or oral rehydration solutions, and ensuring the patient's safety and comfort.

A condition where the body has too much fluid in the blood vessels. It can be caused by things like drinking too much, getting too much IV fluids, or having problems with the heart, kidneys, or adrenal glands.

Fluid in the tissues that causes swelling, often in the lower extremities. It can be caused by fluid overload or other factors.

A reduction in the concentration of blood components, such as red blood cells, due to an increase in plasma volume.

A measurement of how concentrated a liquid is. In the context of fluids, it can help determine if the body is dehydrated or has excess water.

Specialized stockings that are used to help improve blood circulation by squeezing the veins in the legs. This can prevent swelling and blood clots.

A condition where serum calcium levels are elevated, leading to potential complications such as bone pain, muscle weakness, and kidney stones.

Providing increased fluid intake helps promote calcium excretion and reduces the concentration of circulating calcium, thereby managing hypercalcemia.

An acid-base imbalance characterized by an excessive accumulation of acids or a loss of bicarbonate in body fluids, leading to a lower than normal pH.

An acid-base imbalance characterized by an excessive accumulation of bases or a loss of acids, resulting in a higher than normal pH.

A type of acidosis where the body's pH is low due to an accumulation of metabolic acids. This can result from conditions like kidney failure, diabetes, or severe diarrhea.

A type of acidosis where the body's pH is low due to the inability of the lungs to effectively eliminate carbon dioxide, a major contributor to acidity.

A type of alkalosis where the body's pH is high due to excessive loss of carbon dioxide from the lungs, often caused by hyperventilation or anxiety.

A respiratory alkalosis characterized by a rapid breathing rate due to the body's attempt to compensate for an underlying condition like hypoxia or metabolic acidosis.

Third spacing occurs when fluid shifts from the blood vessels into tissues. This can happen due to problems like low albumin, severe burns, or allergic reactions.

Hypoalbuminemia, burns, and severe allergic reactions are common triggers of third spacing. These conditions disrupt the balance between fluid in the blood vessels and tissues.

Common signs and symptoms of third spacing include ascites (fluid buildup in the abdomen) and generalized edema (swelling).

Sodium is vital for nerve and muscle function, maintaining fluid balance, and ensuring acid-base balance.

Hyponatremia means low sodium levels in the blood (below 135 mEq/L). This can occur due to excessive sweating, urination, or loss of fluids from the digestive tract.

Symptoms of hyponatremia include mental confusion, weakness, and even coma in severe cases. The key is to replace lost fluids and sodium.

Hypernatremia refers to high sodium levels in the blood (above 145 mEq/L). This can occur due to dehydration (not enough water), diarrhea, or excessive salt intake.

Common signs of hypernatremia include thirst, dry skin, fever, and decreased urine output. It is vital to replenish fluids and address underlying causes.

Potassium is crucial for normal nerve and muscle function. Hypokalemia means low potassium levels (below 3.5 mEq/L) and can be caused by diuretics, vomiting, or digestive tract issues.

Hypokalemia can lead to fatigue, weakness, irregular heartbeat, and even paralysis. It's critical to monitor potassium levels and treat the underlying cause.