FLUIDS AND ELECTROLYTES

Introduction
 To maintain good health, a balance of fluids and electrolytes, acids and bases must be normally
regulated for metabolic processes to be in working state.
 A cell, together with its environment in any part of the body, is primarily composed of FLUID.
 Thus fluid and electrolyte balance must be maintained to promote normal function. Potential and
actual problems of fluid and electrolytes happen in all health care settings, in every disorder and with
a variety of changes that affect homeostasis.
 The nurse therefore needs to FULLY understand the physiology and pathophysiology of fluid and
electrolyte alterations so as to identify or anticipate and intervene appropriately.
Fluids - a solution of solvent and solute
Solvent - a liquid substance where particles can be dissolved
Solute - a substance, either dissolved or suspended in a solution
Solution
 a homogeneous mixture of 2 or more substances of dissimilar molecular structure
 usually applied to solids in liquids but applies equally to gasses in liquids
Body Fluids
A. Function
1. Transporter of nutrients , wastes, hormones, proteins and etc
2. Medium or milieu for metabolic processes
3. Body temperature regulation
4. Lubricant of musculoskeletal joints
5. Insulator and shock absorber
B. Body Fluid Compartments
C. Body Compartment Volumes
 neonates reach adult values by 2 yrs and are about half-way by 3 months
 average values ~ 70 ml/100g of lean body mass
 percentage of water varies with tissue type,
A. lean tissues ~ 60-80%
B. bone ~ 20-25%
C. fat ~ 10-15%
D. Tonicity of Body Fluids
 Tonicity refers to the concentration of particles in a solution
 The normal tonicity or osmolarity of body fluids is 250-300 mOsm/L
1.Isotonic
 Same as plasma
2.Hypotonic
 have a lesser or lowers solute concentration than plasma
3.Hypertonic
 higher or greater concentration of solutes
Osmole
 the weight in grams of a substance producing an osmotic pressure of 22.4 atm. when dissolved in 1.0
litre of solution
 (gram molecular weight) / (no. of freely moving particles per molecule)
Osmolality
 the number of osmoles of solute per kilogram of solvent
Osmolarity
 the number of osmoles of solute per litre of solution
Mole
 that number of molecules contained in 0.012 kg of C12, or,
 the molecular weight of a substance in grams = Avogadro's number
= 6.023 x 1023
Molality
 the number of moles of solute per kilogram of solvent
Molarity
 is the number of moles of solute per litre of solution

THE Normal DYNAMICS OF BODY FLUIDS

The methods by which electrolytes and other solutes move across biologic membranes are Osmosis,
Diffusion, Filtration and Active Transport. Osmosis, diffusion and filtration are passive processes, while
Active transport is an active process.
1. OSMOSIS
 This is the movement of water/liquid/solvent across a semi-permeable membrane from a lesser
concentration to a higher concentration
 Osmotic pressure is the power of a solution to draw water across a semi-permeable membrane
  Colloid osmotic pressure (also called oncotic pressure) is the osmotic pull exerted by plasma
proteins
2. DIFFUSION
 “Brownian movement” or “downhill movement”
 The movement of particles/solutes/molecules from an area of higher concentration to an area of a
lower concentration
 This process is affected by:
a. The size of the molecules- larger size moves slower than smaller size
b. The concentration of solution- wide difference in concentration has a faster rate of diffusion
c. The temperature- increase in temperature causes increase rate of diffusion
 Facilitated Diffusion is a type of diffusion, which uses a carrier, but no energy is expended. One
example is fructose and amino acid transport process in the intestinal cells. This type of diffusion
is saturable.
3. FILTRATION
 This is the movement of BOTH solute and solvent together across a membrane from an area of
higher pressure to an area of lower pressure
 Hydrostatic pressure is the pressure exerted by the fluids within the closed system in the walls of
the container
4. ACTIVE TRANSPORT
 Process where substances/solutes move from an area of lower concentration to an area of higher
concentration with utilization of ENERGY
 It is called an “uphill movement”
 Usually, a carrier is required. An enzyme is utilized also.
Types of Active Transport:
a. Primarily Active Transport
 Energy is obtained directly from the breakdown of ATP
 One example is the Sodium-Potassium pump
b. Secondary Active Transport
 Energy is derived secondarily from stored energy in the form of ionic concentration difference
between two sides of the membrane.
 One example is the Glucose-Sodium co-transport; also the Sodium-Calcium counter-transport

THE REGULATION OF BODY FLUID BALANCE

To maintain homeostasis, many body systems interact to ensure a balance of fluid intake and output.
A balance of body fluids normally occurs when the fluid output is balanced by the fluid input
Overview of Fluid Regulation by the Body Systems

A. Systemic Regulators of Body Fluids

1. Renal Regulation (RAS)
 This system regulates sodium and water balance in the ECF
 The formation of urine is the main mechanism
 Substance released to regulate water balance is RENIN. Renin activates Angiotensinogen to
Angiotensin-I, A-I is enzymatically converted to Angiotensin-II ( a powerful vasoconstrictor)
 2. Endocrine Regulation
 The primary regulator of water intake is the thirst mechanism, controlled by the thirst center in the
hypothalamus (anterolateral wall of the third ventricle)
 Anti-diuretic hormone (ADH) is synthesized by the hypothalamus and acts on the collecting ducts of
the nephron
 ADH increases rate of water reabsorption
 The adrenal gland helps control F&E through the secretion of ALOSTERONE- a hormone that
promotes sodium retention and water retention in the distal nephron
 ATRIAL NATRIURETIC factor (ANF) is released by the atrial cells of the heart in response to
excess blood volume and increased wall stretching. ANF promotes sodium excretion and inhibits
thirst mechanism
3. Gastro-intestinal regulation
 The GIT digests food and absorbs water
 The hormonal and enzymatic activities involved in digestion, combined with the passive and active
transport of electrolyte, water and solutions, maintain the fluid balance in the body.
B. Fluid Intake
 Healthy adult ingests fluid as part of the dietary intake.
 90% of intake is from the ingested food and water
 10% of intake results from the products of cellular metabolism
 Usual intake of adult is about 2, 500 ml per day
 The other sources of fluid intake are: IVF, TPN, Blood products, and colloids
C. Fluid Output
 The average fluid losses amounts to 2, 500 ml per day, counterbalancing the input.
 The routes of fluid output are the following:
 SENSIBLE LOSS- Urine, feces or GI losses, sweat
 INSENSIBLE LOSS- though the skin and lungs as water vapor
 URINE- is an ultra-filtrate of blood. The normal output is 1,500 ml/day or 30-50 ml per hour or 0.5-
1 ml per kilogram per hour. Urine is formed from the filtration process in the nephron
 FECAL loss- usually amounts to about 200 ml in the stool
 Insensible loss- occurs in the skin and lungs, which are not noticeable and cannot be accurately
measured. Water vapor goes out of the lungs and skin.
Water Metabolism
 Daily Balance: turnover ~ 2500 ml
a. Intake
• drink ~ 1500 ml
• food ~ 700 ml
• metabolism ~ 300 ml
b. Losses
• urine ~ 1500 ml
• skin ~ 500 ml
• insensible losses ~ 400 ml
• sweat ~ 100 ml
• lungs ~ 400 ml
• faeces ~ 100 ml
Minimum daily intake ~ 500 ml with a "normal" diet
Minimum losses ~ 1500 ml/d
Losses are increased with;
a. increased ambient T
b. hyperthermia ~ 13% per °C
c. decreased relative humidity
d. increased minute ventilation
e. increased MRO2

FLUID IMBALANCES
Fluid Volume Deficit or Hypovolemia
 Definition: This is the loss of extra cellular fluid volume that exceeds the intake of fluid. The loss of
water and electrolyte is in equal proportion. It can be called in various terms- vascular, cellular or
intracellular dehydration. But the preferred term is hypovolemia.
 Dehydration refers to loss of WATER alone, with increased solutes concentration and sodium
concentration
Pathophysiology of Fluid Volume Deficit
 Etiologic conditions include:
1. Vomiting
2. Diarrhea
 3. Prolonged GI suctioning
4. Increased sweating
5. Inability to gain access to fluids
6. Inadequate fluid intake
7. Massive third spacing
 Risk factors are the following:
1. Diabetes Insipidus
2. Adrenal insufficiency
3. Osmotic diuresis
4. Hemorrhage
5. Coma
6. Third-spacing conditions like ascites, pancreatitis and burns
PATHOPHYSIOLOGY:
 Factors
 inadequate fluids in the body
 decreased blood volume
 decreased cellular hydration
 cellular shrinkage
 weight loss, decreased turgor, oliguria, hypotension, weak pulse, etc.

THE NURSING PROCESS IN FLUID VOLUME DEFICIT

Assessment:
1. Physical examination
• Weight loss, tented skin turgor, dry mucus membrane
• Hypotension
• Tachycardia
• Cool skin, acute weight loss
• Flat neck veins
• Decreased CVP
2. Subjective cues
• Thirst
• Nausea, anorexia
• Muscle weakness and cramps
• Change in mental state
3. Laboratory findings
a. Elevated BUN due to depletion of fluids or decreased renal perfusion
b. Hemoconcentration
c. Possible Electrolyte imbalances: Hypokalemia, Hyperkalemia, Hyponatremia, hypernatremia
d. Urine specific gravity is increased (concentrated urine) above 1.020
4. NURSING DIAGNOSIS - Fluid Volume deficit
5. PLANNING - To restore body fluids
6. IMPLEMENTATION
ASSIST IN MEDICAL INTERVENTION
• Provide intravenous fluid as ordered
• Provide fluid challenge test as ordered
7. NURSING MANAGEMENT
1. Assess the ongoing status of the patient by doing an accurate input and output monitoring
2. Monitor daily weights. Approximate weight loss 1 kilogram = 1liter!
3. Monitor Vital signs, skin and tongue turgor, urinary concentration, mental function and peripheral
circulation
4. Prevent Fluid Volume Deficit from occurring by identifying risk patients and implement fluid
replacement therapy as needed promptly
1. Correct fluid Volume Deficit by offering fluids orally if tolerated, anti-emetics if with vomiting,
and foods with adequate electrolytes
2. Maintain skin integrity
3. Provide frequent oral care
4. Teach patient to change position slowly to avoid sudden postural hypotension

FLUID VOLUME EXCESS: HYPERVOLEMIA

 Refers to the isotonic expansion of the ECF caused by the abnormal retention of water and sodium
 There is excessive retention of water and electrolytes in equal proportion. Serum sodium
concentration remains NORMAL
Pathophysiology of Fluid Volume Excess
a. Etiologic conditions and Risks factors
• Congestive heart failure
 • Renal failure
• Excessive fluid intake
• Impaired ability to excrete fluid as in renal disease
• Cirrhosis of the liver
• Consumption of excessive table salts
• Administration of excessive IVF
• Abnormal fluid retention

b. PATHOPHYSIOLOGY
• Excessive fluid
• expansion of blood volume
• edema, increased neck vein distention, tachycardia, hypertension.
The Nursing Process in Fluid Volume Excess
ASSESSMENT
Physical Examination
1. Increased weight gain
2. Increased urine output
3. Moist crackles in the lungs
4. Increased CVP
5. Distended neck veins
6. Wheezing
7. Dependent edema
Subjective cue/s
1. Shortness of breath
2. Change in mental state
Laboratory findings
1. BUN and Creatinine levels are LOW because of dilution
2. Urine sodium and osmolality decreased (urine becomes diluted)
3. CXR may show pulmonary congestion
NURSING DIAGNOSIS
o Fluid Volume excess
IMPLEMENTATION
ASSIST IN MEDICAL INTERVENTION
• Administer diuretics as prescribed
• Assist in hemodialysis
• Provide dietary restriction of sodium and water
NURSING MANAGEMENT
1. Continually assess the patient’s condition by measuring intake and output, daily weight
monitoring, edema assessment and breath sounds
2. Prevent Fluid Volume Excess by adhering to diet prescription of low salt- foods.
3. Detect and Control Fluid Volume Excess by closely monitoring IVF therapy, administering
medications, providing rest periods, placing in semi-fowler’s position for lung expansion and
providing frequent skin care for the edema
4. Teach patient about edema, ascites, and fluid therapy. Advise elevation of the extremities,
restriction of fluids, necessity of paracentesis, dialysis and diuretic therapy.
5. Instruct patient to avoid over-the-counter medications without first checking with the health care
provider because they may contain sodium
ELECTROLYTES
 Electrolytes are charged ions capable of conducting electricity and are solutes found in all body
compartments.
1. Sources of electrolytes
 Foods and ingested fluids, medications; IVF and TPN solutions
2. Functions of Electrolytes
 Maintains fluid balance
 Regulates acid-base balance
 Needed for enzymatic secretion and activation
 Needed for proper metabolism and effective processes of muscular contraction, nerve transmission
3. Types of Electrolytes
 CATIONS- positively charged ions; examples are sodium, potassium, calcium
 ANIONS- negatively charged ions; examples are chloride and phosphates]
 The major ICF cation is potassium (K+); the major ICF anion is Phosphates
 The major ECF cation is Sodium (Na+); the major ECF anion is Chloride (Cl-)
DYNAMICS OF ELECTROLYTE BALANCE
1. Electrolyte Distribution
  ECF and ICF vary in their electrolyte distribution and concentration
 ICF has K+, PO4-, proteins, Mg+, Ca++ and SO4-
 ECF has Na+, Cl-, HCO3-
2. Electrolyte Excretion
 These electrolytes are excessively eliminated by abnormal fluid losses
 Routes can be thru urine, feces, vomiting, surgical drainage, wound drainage and skin excretion
3. Regulation of Electrolytes
a) Renal Regulation
 occurs by the process of glomerular filtration, tubular reabsorption and tubular secretion
b) Endocrine Regulation
 hormones play a role in this type of regulation:
Aldosterone- promotes Na retention and K excretion
ANF- promotes Na excretion
PTH- promotes Ca retention and PO4 excretion
Calcitonin- promotes Ca and PO4 excretion
c) GIT Regulation
 electrolytes are absorbed and secreted
 some are excreted thru the stool

THE CATIONS
SODIUM
 The most abundant cation in the ECF
 Normal range in the blood is 135-145 mEq/L
 A loss or gain of sodium is usually accompanied by a loss or gain of water.
 Major contributor of the plasma Osmolality
 Sources: Diet, medications, IVF. The minimum daily requirement is 2 grams
 Imbalances- Hyponatremia= <135 mEq/L; Hypernatremia= >145 mEq/L
 Functions:
1. Participates in the Na-K pump
2. Assists in maintaining blood volume
3. Assists in nerve transmission and muscle contraction
4. Primary determinant of ECF concentration.
5. Controls water distribution throughout the body.
6. Primary regulator of ECF volume.
7. Sodium also functions in the establishment of the electrochemical state necessary for muscle
contraction and the transmission of nerve impulses.
8. Regulations: skin, GIT, GUT, Aldosterone increases Na retention in the kidney

SODIUM DEFICIT: HYPONATREMIA

 Refers to a Sodium serum level of less than 135 mEq/L. This may result from excessive sodium loss
or excessive water gain.
Pathophysiology
 Etiologic Factors
1. Fluid loss such as from Vomiting and nasogastric suctioning
2. Diarrhea
3. Sweating
4. Use of diuretics
5. Fistula
 Other factors
1. Dilutional hyponatremia
• Water intoxication, compulsive water drinking where sodium level is diluted with increased
water intake
2. SIADH
• Excessive secretion of ADH causing water retention and dilutional hyponatremia
 Hyponatremia hypotonicity of plasma water from the intravascular space will move out and go
to the intracellular compartment with a higher concentration cell swelling
 Water is pulled INTO the cell because of decreased extracellular sodium level and increased
intracellular concentration

The Nursing Process in HYPONATREMIA

ASSESSMENT
Sodium Deficit (Hyponatremia)
♦Clinical Manifestations
 Clinical manifestations of hyponatremia depend on the cause, magnitude, and rapidity of onset.
  Although nausea and abdominal cramping occur, most of the symptoms are neuropsychiatric and
are probably related to the cellular swelling and cerebral edema associated with hyponatremia.
 As the extracellular sodium level decreases, the cellular fluid becomes relatively more
concentrated and ‘pulls” water into the cells.
 In general, those patients having acute decline in serum sodium levels have more severe
symptoms and higher mortality rates than do those with more slowly developing hyponatremia.
 Features of hyponatremia associated with sodium loss and water gain include anorexia, muscle
cramps, and a feeling of exhaustion.
 When the serum sodium level drops below 115 mEq/L (SI: 115 mmol/L), thee ff signs of
increasing intracranial pressure occurs:
o lethargy
o Confusion
o muscular twitching
o focal weakness
o hemiparesis
o papilledema
o convulsions
In summary:
 Physical Examination
1. Altered mental status
2. Vomiting
3. Lethargy
4. Muscle twitching and convulsions (if sodium level is below 115 mEq/L)
5. Focal weakness
 Subjective Cues
1. Nausea
2. Cramps
3. Anorexia
4. Headache
 Laboratory findings
1. Serum sodium level is less than 135 mEq/L
2. Decreased serum osmolality
3. Urine specific gravity is LOW if caused by sodium loss
4. In SIADH, urine sodium is high and specific gravity is HIGH
NURSING DIAGNOSIS
 Altered cerebral perfusion
 Fluid volume Excess
IMPLEMENTATION
ASSIST IN MEDICAL INTERVENTION
 Provide sodium replacement as ordered. Isotonic saline is usually ordered.. Infuse the solution very
cautiously. The serum sodium must NOT be increased by greater than 12 mEq/L because of the
danger of pontine osmotic demyelination
 Administer lithium and demeclocycline in SIADH
 Provide water restriction if with excess volume
NURSING MANAGEMENT
1. Provide continuous assessment by doing an accurate intake and output, daily weights, mental status
examination, urinary sodium levels and GI manifestations. Maintain seizure precaution
2. Detect and control Hyponatremia by encouraging food intake with high sodium content, monitoring
patients on lithium therapy, monitoring input of fluids like IVF, parenteral medication and feedings.
3. Return the Sodium level to Normal by restricting water intake if the primary problem is water
retention. Administer sodium to normovolemic patient and elevate the sodium slowly by using
sodium chloride solution

SODIUM EXCESS: HYPERNATREMIA

 Serum Sodium level is higher than 145 mEq/L
 There is a gain of sodium in excess of water or a loss of water in excess of sodium.
Pathophysiology:
 Etiologic factors
1. Fluid deprivation
2. Water loss from Watery diarrhea, fever, and hyperventilation
3. Administration of hypertonic solution
4. Increased insensible water loss
5. Inadequate water replacement, inability to swallow
6. Seawater ingestion or excessive oral ingestion of salts
 Other factors
1. Diabetes insipidus
 2. Heat stroke
3. Near drowning in ocean
4. Malfunction of dialysis
 Increased sodium concentration
 hypertonic plasma
 water will move out form the cell outside to the interstitial space
 CELLULAR SHRINKAGE
 then to the blood
 Water pulled from cells because of increased extracellular sodium level and decreased cellular fluid
concentration
The Nursing Process in HYPERNATREMIA
A. Sodium Excess (Hypernatremia)
Clinical Manifestations
• primarily neurologic
• Presumably the consequence of cellular dehydration.
• Hypernatremia results in a relatively concentrated ECF, causing water to be pulled from the cells.
• Clinically, these changes may be manifested by:
o restlessness and weakness in moderate hypernatremia
o disorientation, delusions, and hallucinations in severe hypernatremia.
• Dehydration (hypernatremia) is often overlooked as the primary reason for behavioral changes in the
elderly.
• If hypernatremia is severe, permanent brain damage can occur (especially in children). Brain damage
is apparently due to subarachnoid hemorrhages that result from brain contraction.
A primary characteristic of hypernatremia is thirst. Thirst is so strong a defender of serum sodium
levels in normal people that hypernatremia never occurs unless the person is unconscious or is denied access
to water; unfortunately, ill people may have an impaired thirst mechanism. Other signs include dry, swollen
tongue and sticky mucous membranes. A mild elevation in body temperature may occur, but on correction
of the hypernatremia the body temperature should return to normal.
ASSESSMENT
 Physical Examination
1. Restlessness, elevated body temperature
2. Disorientation
3. Dry, swollen tongue and sticky mucous membrane, tented skin turgor
4. Flushed skin, postural hypotension
5. Increased muscle tone and deep reflexes
6. Peripheral and pulmonary edema
 Subjective Cues
1. Delusions and hallucinations
2. Extreme thirst
3. Behavioral changes
 Laboratory findings
1. Serum sodium level exceeds 145 mEq/L
2. Serum osmolality exceeds 295 mOsm/kg
3. Urine specific gravity and osmolality INCREASED or elevated
IMPLEMENTATION
ASSIST IN THE MEDICAL INTERVENTION
1. Administer hypotonic electrolyte solution slowly as ordered
2. Administer diuretics as ordered
3. Desmopressin is prescribed for diabetes insipidus
NURSING MANAGEMENT
1. Continuously monitor the patient by assessing abnormal loses of water, noting for the thirst and
elevated body temperature and behavioral changes
2. Prevent hypernatremia by offering fluids regularly and plan with the physician alternative routes if
oral route is not possible. Ensure adequate water for patients with DI. Administer IVF therapy
cautiously
3. Correct the Hypernatremia by monitoring the patient’s response to the IVF replacement. Administer
the hypotonic solution very slowly to prevent sudden cerebral edema.
4. Monitor serum sodium level.
5. Reposition client regularly, keep side-rails up, the bed in low position and the call bell/light within
reach.
6. Provide teaching to avoid over-the counter medications without consultation as they may contain
sodium

POTASSIUM
 The most abundant cation in the ICF
  Potassium is the major intracellular electrolyte; in fact, 98% of the body’s potassium is inside the
cells.
 The remaining 2% is in the ECF; it is this 2% that is all-important in neuromuscular function.
 Potassium is constantly moving in and out of cells according to the body’s needs, under the influence
of the sodium-potassium pump.
 Normal range in the blood is 3.5-5 mEq/L
 Normal renal function is necessary for maintenance of potassium balance, because 80-90% of the
potassium is excreted daily from the body by way of the kidneys. The other less than 20% is lost
through the bowel and sweat glands.
 Major electrolyte maintaining ICF balance
 Sources- Diet, vegetables, fruits, IVF, medications
 Functions:
1. Maintains ICF Osmolality
2. Important for nerve conduction and muscle contraction
3. Maintains acid-base balance
4. Needed for metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins
5. Potassium influences both skeletal and cardiac muscle activity.
a. For example, alterations in its concentration change myocardial irritability and rhythm.
 Regulations: renal secretion and excretion, Aldosterone promotes renal excretion acidosis promotes
K exchange for hydrogen
 Imbalances:
 Hypokalemia= <3.5 mEq/L
 Hyperkalemia=> 5.0 mEq/L

POTASSIUM DEFICIT: HYPOKALEMIA

 Condition when the serum concentration of potassium is less than 3.5 mEq/L
Pathophysiology
 Etiology
1. Gastro-intestinal loss of potassium such as diarrhea and fistula
2. Vomiting and gastric suctioning
3. Metabolic alkalosis
4. Diaphoresis and renal disorders
5. Ileostomy
 Other factor/s
1. Hyperaldosteronism
2. Heart failure
3. Nephrotic syndrome
4. Use of potassium-losing diuretics
5. Insulin therapy
6. Starvation
7. Alcoholics and elderly
• Decreased potassium in the body impaired nerve excitation and transmission signs/symptoms
such as weakness, cardiac dysrhythmias etc..
The Nursing Process in Hypokalemia
Potassium Deficit (Hypokalemia)
Clinical Manifestations
 Potassium deficiency can result in widespread derangements in physiologic functions and especially
nerve conduction.
 Most important, severe hypokalemia can result in death through cardiac or respiratory arrest.
 Clinical signs rarely develop before the serum potassium level has fallen below 3 mEq/L (51: 3
mmol/L) unless the rate of fall has been rapid.
 Manifestations of hypokalemia include fatigue, anorexia, nausea, vomiting, muscle weakness,
decreased bowel motility, paresthesias, dysrhythmias, and increased sensitivity to digitalis.
 If prolonged, hypokalemia can lead to impaired renal concentrating ability, causing dilute urine,
polyuria, nocturia, and polydipsia
ASSESSMENT
 Physical examination
1. Muscle weakness
2. Decreased bowel motility and abdominal distention
3. Paresthesias
4. Dysrhythmias
5. Increased sensitivity to digitalis
 Subjective cues
1. Nausea , anorexia and vomiting
2. Fatigue, muscles cramps
3. Excessive thirst, if severe
  Laboratory findings
1. Serum potassium is less than 3.5 mEq/L
2. ECG: FLAT “T” waves, or inverted T waves, depressed ST segment and presence of the “U”
wave and prolonged PR interval.
3. Metabolic alkalosis

IMPLEMENTATION
ASSIST IN THE MEDICAL INTERVENTION
1. Provide oral or IV replacement of potassium
2. Infuse parenteral potassium supplement. Always dilute the K in the IVF solution and administer with
a pump. IVF with potassium should be given no faster than 10-20-mEq/ hour!
3. NEVER administer K by IV bolus or IM
NURSING MANAGEMENT
1. Continuously monitor the patient by assessing the cardiac status, ECG monitoring, and digitalis
precaution
2. Prevent hypokalemia by encouraging the patient to eat potassium rich foods like orange juice,
bananas, cantaloupe, peaches, potatoes, dates and apricots.
3. Correct hypokalemia by administering prescribed IV potassium replacement. The nurse must ensure
that the kidney is functioning properly!
4. Administer IV potassium no faster than 20 mEq/hour and hook the patient on a cardiac monitor. To
EMPHASIZE: Potassium should NEVER be given IV bolus or IM!!
5. A concentration greater than 60 mEq/L is not advisable for peripheral veins.

POTASSIUM EXCESS: HYPERKALEMIA

 Serum potassium greater than 5.5 mEq/L
Pathophysiology
 Etiologic factors
1. Iatrogenic, excessive intake of potassium
2. Renal failure- decreased renal excretion of potassium
3. Hypoaldosteronism and Addison’s disease
4. Improper use of potassium supplements
 Other factors
1. Pseudohyperkalemia- tight tourniquet and hemolysis of blood sample, marked leukocytosis
2. Transfusion of “old” banked blood
3. Acidosis
4. Severe tissue trauma
 Increased potassium in the body
 Causing irritability of the cardiac cells
 Possible arrhythmias!!

The Nursing Process in Hyperkalemia

Potassium Excess (Hyperkalemia)
Clinical Manifestations
 By far the most clinically important effect of hyperkalemia is its effect on the myocardium.
 Cardiac effects of an elevated serum potassium level are usually not significant below a
concentration of 7 mEq/L (SI: 7 mmol/L), but they are almost always present when the level is 8
mEq/L (SI: 8 mmol/L) or greater.
 As the plasma potassium concentration is increased, disturbances in cardiac conduction occur.
 The earliest changes, often occurring at a serum potassium level greater than 6 mEq/ L (SI: 6
mmol/L), are peaked narrow T waves and a shortened QT interval.
 If the serum potassium level continues to rise, the PR interval becomes prolonged and is followed by
disappearance of the P waves.
 Finally, there is decomposition and prolongation of the QRS complex. Ventricular dysrhythmias and
cardiac arrest may occur at any point in this progression.
 Note that in Severe hyperkalemia causes muscle weakness and even paralysis, related to a
depolarization block in muscle.
 Similarly, ventricular conduction is slowed.
 Although hyperkalemia has marked effects on the peripheral neuromuscular system, it has little
effect on the central nervous system.
 Rapidly ascending muscular weakness leading to flaccid quadriplegia has been reported in patients
with very high serum potassium levels.
 Paralysis of respiratory muscles and those required for phonation can also occur.
 Gastrointestinal manifestations, such as nausea, intermit tent intestinal colic, and diarrhea, may occur
in hyperkalemic patients.

ASSESSMENT
Physical Examination
1. Diarrhea
2. Skeletal muscle weakness
3. Abnormal cardiac rate
Subjective Cues
1. Nausea
2. Intestinal pain/colic
3. Palpitations
Laboratory Findings
1. Peaked and narrow T waves
2. ST segment depression and shortened QT interval
3. Prolonged PR interval
4. Prolonged QRS complex
5. Disappearance of P wave
6. Serum potassium is higher than 5.5 mEq/L
7. Acidosis
IMPLEMENTATION
ASSIST IN MEDICAL INTERVENTION
1. Monitor the patient’s cardiac status with cardiac machine
2. Institute emergency therapy to lower potassium level by:
a. Administering IV calcium gluconate- antagonizes action of K on cardiac conduction
b. Administering Insulin with dextrose-causes temporary shift of K into cells
c. Administering sodium bicarbonate-alkalinizes plasma to cause temporary shift
d. Administering Beta-agonists
e. Administering Kayexalate (cation-exchange resin)-draws K+ into the bowel
NURSING MANAGEMENT
1. Provide continuous monitoring of cardiac status, dysrhythmias, and potassium levels.
2. Assess for signs of muscular weakness, paresthesias, nausea
3. Evaluate and verify all HIGH serum K levels
4. Prevent hyperkalemia by encouraging high risk patient to adhere to proper potassium restriction
5. Correct hyperkalemia by administering carefully prescribed drugs. Nurses must ensure that clients
receiving IVF with potassium must be always monitored and that the potassium supplement is given
correctly
6. Assist in hemodialysis if hyperkalemia cannot be corrected.
7. Provide client teaching. Advise patients at risk to avoid eating potassium rich foods, and to use
potassium salts sparingly.
8. Monitor patients for hypokalemia who are receiving potassium-sparing diuretic

CALCIUM
 Majority of calcium is in the bones and teeth
 Small amount may be found in the ECF and ICF
 Normal serum range is 8.5 – 10.5 mg/dL
 Sources: milk and milk products; diet; IVF and medications
 Functions:
1. Needed for formation of bones and teeth
2. For muscular contraction and relaxation
3. For neuronal and cardiac function
4. For enzymatic activation
5. For normal blood clotting
 Regulations:
1. GIT- absorbs Ca+ in the intestine; Vitamin D helps to increase absorption
2. Renal regulation- Ca+ is filtered in the glomerulus and reabsorbed in the tubules:
3. Endocrine regulation:
Parathyroid hormone from the parathyroid glands is released when Ca+ level is low. PTH
causes release of calcium from bones and increased retention of calcium by the kidney but
PO4 is excreted
Calcitonin from the thyroid gland is released when the calcium level is high. This causes
excretion of both calcium and PO4 in the kidney and promoted deposition of calcium in the
bones.
 Imbalances- Hypocalcemia= <8.5 mg/dL; Hypercalcemia= >10.5 mg/dL

THE ANIONS
CHLORIDE
 The major Anion of the ECF
 Normal range is 95-108 mEq/L
 Sources: Diet, especially high salt foods, IVF (like NSS), HCl (in the stomach)
  Functions:
1. Major component of gastric juice
2. Regulates serum Osmolality and blood volume
3. Participates in the chloride shift
4. Acts as chemical buffer
 Regulations: Renal regulation by absorption and excretion; GIT absorption
 Imbalances: Hypochloremia= < 95 mEq/L; Hyperchloremia= >108 mEq/L

PHOSPHATES
 The major Anion of the ICF
 Normal range is 2.5 to 4.5 mg/dL
 Sources: Diet, TPN, Bone reserves
 Functions:
1. Component of bones, muscles and nerve tissues
2. Needed by the cells to generate ATP
3. Needed for the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins
4. Component of DNA and RNA
Regulations: Renal glomerular filtration, endocrinal regulation by PTH-decreases PO4 in the blood
by kidney excretion
 Imbalances- Hypophosphatemia= <2.5 mg/dL; Hyperphosphatemia >4.5 mg/dL

BICARBONATES
 Present in both ICF and ECF
 Regulates acid-base balance together with hydrogen
 Normal range is 22-26 mEq/L
 Sources: Diet; medications and metabolic by-products of the cells.
 Function: Component of the bicarbonate-carbonic acid buffer system
 Regulation: Kidney production, absorption and secretion
 Imbalances: Metabolic acidosis= <22 mEq/L; Metabolic alkalosis= >26 mEq/

ACID BASE BALANCE

 Acids
 substances that can donate or release protons or hydrogen ions (H+); examples are HCl,
carbonic acid, acetic acid.
 Bases or alkalis
 substances that can accept protons or hydrogen ions because they have low H+ concentration.
The major base in the body is BICARBONATE (HCO3)
 Carbon dioxide is considered to be acid or base depending on its chemical association
 When assessing acid-base balance, carbon dioxide is considered ACID because of its relationship
with carbonic acid.
 Because carbonic acid cannot be routinely measured, carbon dioxide is used.
 pH- is the measurement of the degree of acidity or alkalinity of a solution. This reflects the
relationship of hydrogen ion concentration in the solution.
 The higher the hydrogen ion concentration, the acidic is the solution and pH is LOW
 The lower the hydrogen concentration, the alkaline is the solution and the pH is HIGH
 Normal pH in the blood is between 7.35 to 7.45

SUPPLY AND SOURCES OF ACIDS AND BASES

 Sources of acids and bases are from:
1. ECF, ICF and body tissues
2. Foodstuff
3. Metabolic products of cells like CO2, lactic acids, and ammonia

DYNAMICS OF ACID-BASE BALANCE

 Acids are constantly produced in the body
 Because cellular processes need normal pH, acids and bases must be balanced continuously
 CO2 and HCO3 are crucial in maintaining the balance
 A ratio of HCO3 and Carbonic acid is maintained at 20:1
 Several body systems (like the respiratory, renal and GIT) together with the chemical buffers are
actively involved in the normal pH balance
 The major ways in which balance is maintained are the process of acid/base secretion, production,
excretion and neutralization
1. REGULATION OF ACID-BASE BALANCE BY THE CHEMICAL BUFFER
 Buffers are present in all body fluids functioning mainly to prevent excessive changes in the pH.
  Buffers either remove/accept H+ or release/donate H+
 The major chemical buffers are:
1. Carbonic acid-Bicarbonate Buffer (in the ECF)
2. Phosphate buffer (in the ECF and ICF)
3. Protein buffer (in the ICF)
 The action of the chemical buffer is immediate but limited

2. REGULATION OF ACID-BASE BALANCE BY RESPIRATORY SYSTEM

 The respiratory center in the medulla is involved
 Carbon dioxide is the powerful stimulator of the respiratory center
 The lungs use CO2 to regulate H+ ion concentration
 Through the changes in the breathing pattern, acid-base balance is achieved within minutes
 Functions of the respiratory system in acid-base balance:
1. CO2 + H2O H2CO3
2.↑ CO2activates medulla↑RRCO2 is exhaled pH rises to normal
3. ↑ HCO3depresses RRCO2 is retainedBicarbonate is neutralized pH drops to normal

3. REGULATION OF ACID-BASE BALANCE BY THE KIDNEY

 Long term regulator of the acid-base balance
 Slower to respond but more permanent
 Achieved by 3 interrelated processes
1. Bicarbonate reabsorption in the nephron
2. Bicarbonate formation
3. Hydrogen ion excretion
 When excess H+ is present (acidic), pH fallskidney reabsorbs and generates Bicarbonate and
excretes H+
 When H+ is low and HCO3 is high (alkalotic). pH rises kidney excretes HCO3 and H+ is retained.
Normal Arterial Blood Gas Values
1. pH – 7.35-7.45
2. pO2 – 80-100 mmHg
3. pCO2 – 35-45 mmHg
4. Hco3 – 22-26 mEq/L
5. Base deficit/Excess – (+/-)2
6. O2 saturation – 98-100%
FACTORS AFFECTING BODY FLUIDS, ELECTROLYTES AND ACID-BASE BALANCE
1. AGE
 Infants have higher proportion of body water than adults
 Water content of the body decreases with age
 Infants have higher fluid turn-over due to immature kidney and rapid respiratory rate

1. GENDER AND BODY SIZE

 Women have higher body fat content but lesser water content
 Lean body has higher water content

2. ENVIRONMENT AND TEMPERATURE

 Climate and heat and humidity affect fluid balance

3. DIET AND LIFESTYLE

 Anorexia nervosa will lead to nutritional depletion
 Stressful situations will increase metabolism, increase ADH causing water
retention and increased blood volume
 Chronic Alcohol consumption causes malnutrition
4. ILLNESS
 Trauma and burns release K+ in the blood
 Cardiac dysfunction will lead to edema and congestion

5. MEDICAL TREATMENT, MEDICATIONS AND SURGERY

 Suctioning, diuretics and laxatives may cause imbalances

Acid Base Imbalances

Metabolic Alkalosis
 A base bicarbonate excess
 A result of a loss of acid and the
 accumulation of bases
 S/S - serum pH > 7.45, increased serum
  HCO3, serum K level less than 4, tetany, confusion and convulsions
 Nursing Interventions - watch for s/s of hypokalemia, LOC and seizure precautions
Metabolic Acidosis
 A base bicarbonate deficit
 Comes from too much acid from metabolism and loss of bicarbonate
 S/S - Serum pH <7.35, Increased K+ level, DKA (Kussmaul’s Respirations), Shock, stupor, coma
 Nursing Intervention - Give HCO3/Monitor K+ levels
Respiratory Alkalosis
 A deficit of carbonic acid caused by hyperventilation
 S/S - decreased levels of CO2 and increased levels of pH, HCO3 near normal
 Nursing Interventions - monitor for anxiety and observe for signs and symptoms of tetany
Respiratory Alkalosis
A carbonic acid excess
Caused by an condition that interferes with the release of CO2 from the lungs (sedatives, COPD, narcotics
etc.)
S/S - serum pH < 7.35, increased serum CO2 levels> 45 mm Hg, serum K increased, cyanosis
Nursing Interventions - Provide O2, Semifowlers position, seizure precautions
Interpretation Arterial Blood Gases

 If acidosis the pH is down

 If alkalosis the pH is up
 The respiratory function indicator is the PCO2
 The metabolic function indicator is the HCO3
Step 1
 Look at the pH
 Is it up or down?
 If it is up - it reflects alkalosis
 If it is down - it reflects acidosis
Step 2
 Look at the PCO2
 Is it up or down?
 If it reflects an opposite response as the pH,
 then you know that the condition is a respiratory imbalance
 If it does not reflect an opposite response as the pH - move to step III
Step 3
 Look at the HCO3
 Does the HCO3 reflect a corresponding
 response with the pH
 If it does then the condition is a metabolic imbalance