Electrolyte Imbalance Flashcard

Front

Identify the major electrolyte in extracellular fluid (ECF) crucial for nerve function and muscle contraction.

Back

Sodium

Front

Imagine you're a detective like Harper, trying to solve the mystery of hyponatremia. Which of the following clues points to a symptom of this condition? Increased blood pressure, Swelling of the brain and nervous system, Increased muscle strength, Decreased heart rate

Back

Swelling of the brain and nervous system

Answer explanation

Hyponatremia can lead to swelling of the brain and nervous system due to low sodium levels, causing fluid imbalance. This is a serious symptom, unlike the other options which do not relate to hyponatremia.

Front

Expected reference range for potassium in mEq/L?

Back

3.5 to 5

Answer explanation

The normal reference range for potassium in mEq/L is 3.5 to 5. This range is crucial for maintaining proper cellular function and electrolyte balance in the body.

Front

Which electrolyte imbalance is characterized by a blood sodium level less than 136 mEq/L?

Back

Hyponatremia

Answer explanation

Hyponatremia is defined as a blood sodium level less than 136 mEq/L. It is the only option that directly correlates with the specified sodium level, while hyperkalemia, hypernatremia, and hypocalcemia refer to other electrolyte imbalances.

Front

Who among Aiden, Oliver, and Nora is at the greatest risk for an electrolyte imbalance?

Back

Infants and older adults

Answer explanation

Infants and older adults are at greatest risk for electrolyte imbalance due to their smaller body size and physiological changes, making them more susceptible to dehydration and imbalances compared to other age groups.

Front

Evelyn and Samuel are discussing ways to manage fluid overload. What would be a common treatment they might consider?

Back

Restrict water intake

Answer explanation

Fluid overload occurs when the body retains too much fluid. The common treatment is to restrict water intake to help reduce excess fluid and prevent complications, making 'Restrict water intake' the correct choice.

Front

What blood sodium level indicates hypernatremia?

Back

Greater than 145 mEq/L

Answer explanation

Hypernatremia is defined as a blood sodium level greater than 145 mEq/L. This condition indicates an excess of sodium in the blood, often due to dehydration or other underlying health issues.

Front

Scenario leading to hypernatremia in a science experiment.

Back

Aiden accidentally uses hypertonic IV fluids in the experiment.

Answer explanation

Hypertonic IV fluids increase sodium levels in the blood, making them a risk factor for hypernatremia. In contrast, excessive potassium intake, low sodium diet, and hypotonic IV fluids do not contribute to this condition.

Front

Symptoms of severe hyponatremia?

Back

Dehydration

Answer explanation

Severe hyponatremia can lead to dehydration as the body's sodium levels drop, causing an imbalance in fluid regulation. This results in symptoms like confusion, seizures, and in severe cases, coma, rather than hyperactivity or increased appetite.

Front

Major cation in the intracellular fluid (ICF)?

Back

Potassium (K+)

Answer explanation

The major cation in intracellular fluid (ICF) is Potassium (K+). It plays a crucial role in maintaining cell membrane potential and overall cellular function, unlike Sodium (Na+), which is predominant in extracellular fluid.