Fluid, Electrolyte and
Acid-Base Balance
By
Linda A. Martin, EdD, MSN APRN, BC, CNE
Fluid Balance
General Concepts
 Intake = Output = Fluid Balance
 Sensible losses
 Urination
 Defecation
 Wound drainage
 Insensible losses
 Evaporation from skin
 Respiratory loss from lungs
Fluid Compartments
 Intracellular
 40% of body weight
 Extracellular
 20% of body weight
 Two types
 INTERSTITIAL (between)
 INTRAVASCULAR (inside)
Age-Related Fluid Changes
 Full-term baby - 80%
 Lean Adult Male - 60%
 Aged client - 40%
Fluid and Electrolyte Transport
 PASSIVE
TRANSPORT
SYSTEMS
 Diffusion
 Filtration
 Osmosis
 ACTIVE
TRANSPORT
SYSTEM
 Pumping
 Requires energy
expenditure
Diffusion
 Molecules move across a biological
membrane from an area of higher to an
area of lower concentration
 Membrane types
 Permeable
 Semi-permeable
 Impermeable
Filtration
 Movement of solute and solvent across a
membrane caused by hydrostatic (water
pushing) pressure
 Occurs at the capillary level
 If normal pressure gradient changes (as
occurs with right-sided heart failure)
edema results from “third spacing”
Osmosis
 Movement of solvent from an area of
lower solute concentration to one of
higher concentration
 Occurs through a semipermeable
membrane using osmotic (water
pulling) pressure
Active Transport System
 Solutes can be moved against a
concentration gradient
 Also called “pumping”
 Dependent on the presence of ATP
Fluid Types
 Isotonic
 Hypotonic
 Hypertonic
Isotonic Solution
 No fluid shift because solutions are
equally concentrated
 Normal saline solution (0.9% NaCl)
Hypotonic Solution
 Lower solute concentration
 Fluid shifts from hypotonic solution into
the more concentrated solution to
create a balance (cells swell)
 Half-normal saline solution (0.45%
NaCl)
Hypertonic Solution
 Higher solute concentration
 Fluid is drawn into the hypertonic
solution to create a balance (cells
shrink)
 5% dextrose in normal saline (D5/0.9%
NaCl)
Regulatory Mechanisms
 Baroreceptor reflex
 Volume receptors
 Renin-angiotensin-aldosterone mechanism
 Antidiuretic hormone
Baroreceptor Reflex
 Respond to a fall in arterial blood
pressure
 Located in the atrial walls, vena cava,
aortic arch and carotid sinus
 Constricts afferent arterioles of the kidney
resulting in retention of fluid
Volume Receptors
 Respond to fluid excess in the atria and
great vessels
 Stimulation of these receptors creates a
strong renal response that increases
urine output
Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone
 Renin
 Enzyme secreted by kidneys when
arterial pressure or volume drops
 Interacts with angiotensinogen to
form angiotensin I (vasoconstrictor)
Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone
 Angiotensin
 Angiotensin I is converted in lungs to
angiotensin II using ACE (angiotensin
converting enzyme)
 Produces vasoconstriction to elevate
blood pressure
 Stimulates adrenal cortex to secrete
aldosterone
Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone
 Aldosterone
 Mineralocorticoid that controls Na+ and
K+ blood levels
 Increases Cl- and HCO3- concentrations
and fluid volume
Aldosterone Negative Feedback Mechanism
 ECF & Na+ levels drop  secretion of
ACTH by the anterior pituitary  release
of aldosterone by the adrenal cortex 
fluid and Na+ retention
Antidiuretic Hormone
 Also called vasopressin
 Released by posterior pituitary when there is
a need to restore intravascular fluid volume
 Release is triggered by osmoreceptors in the
thirst center of the hypothalamus
 Fluid volume excess  decreased ADH
 Fluid volume deficit  increased ADH
Fluid Imbalances
 Dehydration
 Hypovolemia
 Hypervolemia
 Water intoxication
Dehydration
 Loss of body fluids  increased
concentration of solutes in the blood
and a rise in serum Na+ levels
 Fluid shifts out of cells into the blood to
restore balance
 Cells shrink from fluid loss and can no
longer function properly
Clients at Risk
 Confused
 Comatose
 Bedridden
 Infants
 Elderly
 Enterally fed
What Do You See?
 Irritability
 Confusion
 Dizziness
 Weakness
 Extreme thirst
  urine output
 Fever
 Dry skin/mucous
membranes
 Sunken eyes
 Poor skin turgor
 Tachycardia
What Do We Do?
 Fluid Replacement - oral or IV over 48
hrs.
 Monitor symptoms and vital signs
 Maintain I&O
 Maintain IV access
 Daily weights
 Skin and mouth care
Hypovolemia
 Isotonic fluid loss
from the
extracellular
space
 Can progress to
hypovolemic
shock
 Caused by:
 Excessive fluid
loss
(hemorrhage)
 Decreased fluid
intake
 Third space
fluid shifting
What Do You See?
 Mental status
deterioration
 Thirst
 Tachycardia
 Delayed capillary
refill
 Orthostatic
hypotension
 Urine output < 30
ml/hr
 Cool, pale
extremities
 Weight loss
What Do We Do?
 Fluid replacement
 Albumin
replacement
 Blood transfusions
for hemorrhage
 Dopamine to
maintain BP
 MAST trousers for
severe shock
 Assess for fluid
overload with
treatment
Hypervolemia
 Excess fluid in the extracellular
compartment as a result of fluid or
sodium retention, excessive intake, or
renal failure
 Occurs when compensatory
mechanisms fail to restore fluid balance
 Leads to CHF and pulmonary edema
What Do You See?
 Tachypnea
 Dyspnea
 Crackles
 Rapid, bounding pulse
 Hypertension
 S3 gallop
 Increased CVP,
pulmonary artery
pressure and
pulmonary artery
wedge pressure
(Swan-Ganz)
 JVD
 Acute weight gain
 Edema
Edema
 Fluid is forced into tissues by the
hydrostatic pressure
 First seen in dependent areas
 Anasarca - severe generalized edema
 Pitting edema
 Pulmonary edema
What Do We Do?
 Fluid and Na+
restriction
 Diuretics
 Monitor vital signs
 Hourly I&O
 Breath sounds
 Monitor ABGs and
labs
 Elevate HOB and
give O2 as ordered
 Maintain IV access
 Skin & mouth care
 Daily weights
Water Intoxication
 Hypotonic
extracellular fluid
shifts into cells to
attempt to restore
balance
 Cells swell
 Causes:
 SIADH
 Rapid infusion of
hypotonic solution
 Excessive tap water
NG irrigation or
enemas
 Psychogenic
polydipsia
What Do You See?
 Signs and symptoms of increased
intracranial pressure
 Early: change in LOC, N/V, muscle
weakness, twitching, cramping
 Late: bradycardia, widened pulse
pressure, seizures, coma
What Do We Do?
 Prevention is the best
treatment
 Assess neuro status
 Monitor I&O and vital
signs
 Fluid restrictions
 IV access
 Daily weights
 Monitor serum Na+
 Seizure precautions
Electrolytes
Electrolytes
 Charged particles in solution
 Cations (+)
 Anions (-)
 Integral part of metabolic and
cellular processes
Positive or Negative?
 Cations (+)
 Sodium
 Potassium
 Calcium
 Magnesium
 Anions (-)
 Chloride
 Bicarbonate
 Phosphate
 Sulfate
Major Cations
 EXTRACELLULAR
 SODIUM (Na+)
 INTRACELLULAR
 POTASSIUM (K+)
Electrolyte Imbalances
 Hyponatremia/
hypernatremia
 Hypokalemia/
Hyperkalemia
 Hypomagnesemia/
Hypermagnesemia
 Hypocalcemia/
Hypercalcemia
 Hypophosphatemia/
Hyperphosphatemia
 Hypochloremia/
Hyperchloremia
Sodium
 Major extracellular cation
 Attracts fluid and helps preserve fluid
volume
 Combines with chloride and bicarbonate
to help regulate acid-base balance
 Normal range of serum sodium 135 - 145
mEq/L
Sodium and Water
 If sodium intake suddenly increases,
extracellular fluid concentration also
rises
 Increased serum Na+ increases thirst
and the release of ADH, which triggers
kidneys to retain water
 Aldosterone also has a function in water
and sodium conservation when serum
Na+ levels are low
Sodium-Potassium Pump
 Sodium (abundant
outside cells) tries to
get into cells
 Potassium (abundant
inside cells) tries to
get out of cells
 Sodium-potassium
pump maintains
normal concentrations
 Pump uses ATP,
magnesium and an
enzyme to maintain
sodium-potassium
concentrations
 Pump prevents cell
swelling and creates
an electrical charge
allowing
neuromuscular
impulse transmission
Hyponatremia
 Serum Na+ level < 135 mEq/L
 Deficiency in Na+ related to amount of body
fluid
 Several types
 Dilutional
 Depletional
 Hypovolemic
 Hypervolemic
 Isovolemic
Types of Hyponatremia
 Dilutional - results from Na+ loss, water gain
 Depletional - insufficient Na+ intake
 Hypovolemic - Na+ loss is greater than water
loss; can be renal (diuretic use) or non-renal
(vomiting)
 Hypervolemic - water gain is greater than
Na+ gain; edema occurs
 Isovolumic - normal Na+ level, too much fluid
What Do You See?
 Primarily neurologic symptoms
 Headache, N/V, muscle twitching,
altered mental status, stupor,
seizures, coma
 Hypovolemia - poor skin turgor,
tachycardia, decreased BP, orthostatic
hypotension
 Hypervolemia - edema, hypertension,
weight gain, bounding tachycardia
What Do We Do?
 MILD CASE
 Restrict fluid intake for
hyper/isovolemic
hyponatremia
 IV fluids and/or
increased po Na+
intake for hypovolemic
hyponatremia
 SEVERE CASE
 Infuse hypertonic NaCl
solution (3% or 5%
NaCl)
 Furosemide to remove
excess fluid
 Monitor client in ICU
Hypernatremia
 Excess Na+ relative to body water
 Occurs less often than hyponatremia
 Thirst is the body’s main defense
 When hypernatremia occurs, fluid shifts
outside the cells
 May be caused by water deficit or over-
ingestion of Na+
 Also may result from diabetes insipidus
What Do You See?
 Think S-A-L-T
 Skin flushed
 Agitation
 Low grade fever
 Thirst
 Neurological symptoms
 Signs of hypovolemia
What Do We Do?
 Correct underlying
disorder
 Gradual fluid
replacement
 Monitor for s/s of
cerebral edema
 Monitor serum Na+
level
 Seizure precautions
Potassium
 Major intracellular cation
 Untreated changes in K+ levels can lead
to serious neuromuscular and cardiac
problems
 Normal K+ levels = 3.5 - 5 mEq/L
Balancing Potassium
 Most K+ ingested is excreted by the
kidneys
 Three other influential factors in K+
balance :
 Na+/K+ pump
 Renal regulation
 pH level
Sodium/Potassium Pump
 Uses ATP to pump potassium into cells
 Pumps sodium out of cells
 Creates a balance
Renal Regulation
 Increased K+ levels  increased K+ loss
in urine
 Aldosterone secretion causes Na+
reabsorption and K+ excretion
pH
 Potassium ions and hydrogen ions
exchange freely across cell membranes
 Acidosis  hyperkalemia (K+ moves out
of cells)
 Alkalosis  hypokalemia (K+ moves into
cells)
Hypokalemia
 Serum K+ < 3.5 mEq/L
 Can be caused by GI losses, diarrhea,
insufficient intake, non-K+ sparing
diuretics (thiazide, furosemide)
What Do You See?
 Think S-U-C-T-I-O-N
 Skeletal muscle weakness
 U wave (EKG changes)
 Constipation, ileus
 Toxicity of digitalis glycosides
 Irregular, weak pulse
 Orthostatic hypotension
 Numbness (paresthesias)
What Do We Do?
 Increase dietary K+
 Oral KCl supplements
 IV K+ replacement
 Change to K+-sparing diuretic
 Monitor EKG changes
IV K+ Replacement
 Mix well when
adding to an IV
solution bag
 Concentrations
should not exceed
40-60 mEq/L
 Rates usually 10-
20 mEq/hr
NEVER GIVE IV
PUSH POTASSIUM
Hyperkalemia
 Serum K+ > 5 mEq/L
 Less common than
hypokalemia
 Caused by altered
kidney function,
increased intake (salt
substitutes), blood
transfusions, meds
(K+-sparing diuretics),
cell death (trauma)
What Do You See?
 Irritability
 Paresthesia
 Muscle weakness (especially legs)
 EKG changes (tented T wave)
 Irregular pulse
 Hypotension
 Nausea, abdominal cramps, diarrhea
What Do We Do?
 Mild
 Loop diuretics (Lasix)
 Dietary restriction
 Moderate
 Kayexalate
 Emergency
 10% calcium
gluconate for cardiac
effects
 Sodium bicarbonate
for acidosis
Magnesium
 Helps produce ATP
 Role in protein synthesis &
carbohydrate metabolism
 Helps cardiovascular system function
(vasodilation)
 Regulates muscle contractions
Hypomagnesemia
 Serum Mg++ level <
1.5 mEq/L
 Caused by poor
dietary intake, poor
GI absorption,
excessive GI/urinary
losses
 High risk clients
 Chronic alcoholism
 Malabsorption
 GI/urinary system
disorders
 Sepsis
 Burns
 Wounds needing
debridement
What Do You See?
 CNS
 Altered LOC
 Confusion
 Hallucinations
What Do You See?
 Neuromuscular
 Muscle weakness
 Leg/foot cramps
 Hyper DTRs
 Tetany
 Chvostek’s & Trousseau’s signs
What Do You See?
 Cardiovascular
 Tachycardia
 Hypertension
 EKG changes
What Do You See?
 Gastrointestinal
 Dysphagia
 Anorexia
 Nausea/vomiting
What Do We Do?
 Mild
 Dietary replacement
 Severe
 IV or IM magnesium sulfate
 Monitor
 Neuro status
 Cardiac status
 Safety
Mag Sulfate Infusion
 Use infusion pump - no faster than 150
mg/min
 Monitor vital signs for hypotension and
respiratory distress
 Monitor serum Mg++ level q6h
 Cardiac monitoring
 Calcium gluconate as an antidote for
overdosage
Hypermagnesemia
 Serum Mg++ level > 2.5 mEq/L
 Not common
 Renal dysfunction is most common
cause
 Renal failure
 Addison’s disease
 Adrenocortical insufficiency
 Untreated DKA
What Do You See?
 Decreased neuromuscular activity
 Hypoactive DTRs
 Generalized weakness
 Occasionally nausea/vomiting
What Do We Do?
 Increased fluids if renal function normal
 Loop diuretic if no response to fluids
 Calcium gluconate for toxicity
 Mechanical ventilation for respiratory
depression
 Hemodialysis (Mg++-free dialysate)
Calcium
 99% in bones, 1% in serum and soft tissue
(measured by serum Ca++)
 Works with phosphorus to form bones and
teeth
 Role in cell membrane permeability
 Affects cardiac muscle contraction
 Participates in blood clotting
Calcium Regulation
 Affected by body stores of Ca++ and by
dietary intake & Vitamin D intake
 Parathyroid hormone draws Ca++ from
bones increasing low serum levels
(Parathyroid pulls)
 With high Ca++ levels, calcitonin is
released by the thyroid to inhibit calcium
loss from bone (Calcitonin keeps)
Hypocalcemia
 Serum calcium < 8.9 mg/dl
 Ionized calcium level < 4.5 mg/Dl
 Caused by inadequate intake,
malabsorption, pancreatitis, thyroid or
parathyroid surgery, loop diuretics, low
magnesium levels
What Do You See?
 Neuromuscular
 Anxiety, confusion, irritability, muscle
twitching, paresthesias (mouth, fingers,
toes), tetany
 Fractures
 Diarrhea
 Diminished response to digoxin
 EKG changes
What Do We Do?
 Calcium gluconate for postop thyroid or
parathyroid client
 Cardiac monitoring
 Oral or IV calcium replacement
Hypercalcemia
 Serum calcium > 10.1 mg/dl
 Ionized calcium > 5.1 mg/dl
 Two major causes
 Cancer
 Hyperparathyroidism
What Do You See?
 Fatigue, confusion, lethargy, coma
 Muscle weakness, hyporeflexia
 Bradycardia  cardiac arrest
 Anorexia, nausea/vomiting, decreased
bowel sounds, constipation
 Polyuria, renal calculi, renal failure
What Do We Do?
 If asymptomatic, treat underlying cause
 Hydrate the patient to encourage diuresis
 Loop diuretics
 Corticosteroids
Phosphorus
 The primary anion in the intracellular fluid
 Crucial to cell membrane integrity, muscle
function, neurologic function and
metabolism of carbs, fats and protein
 Functions in ATP formation, phagocytosis,
platelet function and formation of bones
and teeth
Hypophosphatemia
 Serum phosphorus < 2.5 mg/dl
 Can lead to organ system failure
 Caused by respiratory alkalosis
(hyperventilation), insulin release,
malabsorption, diuretics, DKA, elevated
parathyroid hormone levels, extensive
burns
What Do You See?
 Musculoskeletal
 muscle weakness
 respiratory muscle
failure
 osteomalacia
 pathological
fractures
 CNS
 confusion, anxiety,
seizures, coma
 Cardiac
 hypotension
 decreased cardiac
output
 Hematologic
 hemolytic anemia
 easy bruising
 infection risk
What Do We Do?
 MILD/MODERATE
 Dietary interventions
 Oral supplements
 SEVERE
 IV replacement using
potassium phosphate
or sodium phosphate
Hyperphosphatemia
 Serum phosphorus > 4.5 mg/dl
 Caused by impaired kidney function, cell
damage, hypoparathyroidism, respiratory
acidosis, DKA, increased dietary intake
What Do You See?
 Think C-H-E-M-O
 Cardiac irregularities
 Hyperreflexia
 Eating poorly
 Muscle weakness
 Oliguria
What Do We Do?
 Low-phosphorus diet
 Decrease absorption with antacids that
bind phosphorus
 Treat underlying cause of respiratory
acidosis or DKA
 IV saline for severe hyperphosphatemia
in patients with good kidney function
Chloride
 Major extracellular anion
 Sodium and chloride maintain water
balance
 Secreted in the stomach as hydrochloric
acid
 Aids carbon dioxide transport in blood
Hypochloremia
 Serum chloride < 96 mEq/L
 Caused by decreased intake or decreased
absorption, metabolic alkalosis, and loop,
osmotic or thiazide diuretics
What Do You See?
 Agitation, irritability
 Hyperactive DTRs, tetany
 Muscle cramps, hypertonicity
 Shallow, slow respirations
 Seizures, coma
 Arrhythmias
What Do We Do?
 Treat underlying cause
 Oral or IV replacement in a sodium
chloride or potassium chloride solution
Hyperchloremia
 Serum chloride > 106 mEq/L
 Rarely occurs alone
 Caused by dehydration, renal failure,
respiratory alkalosis, salicylate toxicity,
hyperpara-thyroidism,
hyperaldosteronism, hypernatremia
What Do You See?
 Metabolic Acidosis
 Decreased LOC
 Kussmaul’s respirations
 Weakness
 Hypernatremia
 Agitation
 Tachycardia, dyspnea,
tachypnea, HTN
 Edema
What Do We Do?
 Correct underlying cause
 Restore fluid, electrolyte and acid-base
balance
 IV Lactated Ringer’s solution to correct
acidosis
Acid-Base Balance
Acid-Base Basics
 Balance depends on regulation of free
hydrogen ions
 Concentration of hydrogen ions is
measured in pH
 Arterial blood gases are the major
diagnostic tool for evaluating acid-
base balance
Arterial Blood Gases
 pH 7.35 - 7.45
 PaCO2 35 - 45 mmHg
 HCO3 22-26 mEq/L
Acidosis
 pH < 7.35
 Caused by accumulation of acids or by a
loss of bases
Alkalosis
 pH > 7.45
 Occurs when bases accumulate or acids
are lost
Regulatory Systems
 Three systems come into play when pH
rises or falls
 Chemical buffers
 Respiratory system
 Kidneys
Chemical Buffers
 Immediate acting
 Combine with
offending acid or base
to neutralize harmful
effects until another
system takes over
 Bicarb buffer - mainly
responsible for
buffering blood and
interstitial fluid
 Phosphate buffer -
effective in renal
tubules
 Protein buffers - most
plentiful - hemoglobin
Respiratory System
 Lungs regulate blood levels of CO2
 CO2 + H2O = Carbonic acid
 High CO2 = slower breathing (hold on
to carbonic acid and lower pH)
 Low CO2 = faster breathing (blow off
carbonic acid and raise pH)
 Twice as effective as chemical buffers,
but effects are temporary
Kidneys
 Reabsorb or excrete
excess acids or
bases into urine
 Produce bicarbonate
 Adjustments by the
kidneys take hours
to days to
accomplish
 Bicarbonate levels
and pH levels
increase or decrease
together
Arterial Blood Gases (ABG)
 Uses blood from an arterial puncture
 Three test results relate to acid-base
balance
 pH
 PaCO2
 HCO3
Interpreting ABGs
 Step 1 - check the pH
 Step 2 - What is the CO2?
 Step 3 - Watch the bicarb
 Step 4 - Look for compensation
 Step 5 - What is the PaO2 and SaO2?
Step 1 - Check the pH
 pH < 7.35 = acidosis
 pH > 7.45 = alkalosis
 Move on to Step 2
Step 2 - What is the CO2?
 PaCO2 gives info about the respiratory
component of acid-base balance
 If abnormal, does the change
correspond with change in pH?
 High pH expects low PaCO2 (hypocapnia)
 Low pH expects high PaCO2 (hypercapnia)
Step 3 – Watch the Bicarb
 Provides info regarding metabolic aspect
of acid-base balance
 If pH is high, bicarb expected to be high
(metabolic alkalosis)
 If pH is low, bicarb expected to be low
(metabolic acidosis)
Step 4 – Look for Compensation
 If a change is seen in BOTH PaCO2 and
bicarbonate, the body is trying to
compensate
 Compensation occurs as opposites,
(Example: for metabolic acidosis,
compensation shows respiratory alkalosis)
Step 5 – What is the PaO2 and SaO2
 PaO2 reflects ability to pickup O2 from
lungs
 SaO2 less than 95% is inadequate
oxygenation
 Low PaO2 indicates hypoxemia
Acid-Base Imbalances
 Respiratory Acidosis
 Respiratory Alkalosis
 Metabolic Acidosis
 Metabolic Alkalosis
Respiratory Acidosis
 Any compromise in breathing can result
in respiratory acidosis
 Hypoventilation carbon dioxide
buildup and drop in pH
 Can result from neuromuscular trouble,
depression of the brain’s respiratory
center, lung disease or airway
obstruction
Clients At Risk
 Post op abdominal surgery
 Mechanical ventilation
 Analgesics or sedation
What Do You See?
 Apprehension, restlessness
 Confusion, tremors
 Decreased DTRs
 Diaphoresis
 Dyspnea, tachycardia
 N/V, warm flushed skin
ABG Results
 Uncompensated
 pH < 7.35
 PaCO2 >45
 HCO3 Normal
 Compensated
 pH Normal
 PaCO2 >45
 HCO3 > 26
What Do We Do?
 Correct underlying cause
 Bronchodilators
 Supplemental oxygen
 Treat hyperkalemia
 Antibiotics for infection
 Chest PT to remove secretions
 Remove foreign body obstruction
Respiratory Alkalosis
 Most commonly results from
hyperventilation caused by pain, salicylate
poisoning, use of nicotine or
aminophylline, hypermetabolic states or
acute hypoxia (overstimulates the
respiratory center)
What Do You See?
 Anxiety, restlessness
 Diaphoresis
 Dyspnea ( rate and depth)
 EKG changes
 Hyperreflexia, paresthesias
 Tachycardia
 Tetany
ABG Results
 Uncompensated
 pH > 7.45
 PaCO2 < 35
 HCO3 Normal
 Compensated
 pH Normal
 PaCO2 < 35
 HCO3 < 22
What Do We Do?
 Correct underlying disorder
 Oxygen therapy for hypoxemia
 Sedatives or antianxiety agents
 Paper bag breathing for hyperventilation
Metabolic Acidosis
 Characterized by gain of acid or loss of
bicarb
 Associated with ketone bodies
 Diabetes mellitus, alcoholism, starvation,
hyperthyroidism
 Other causes
 Lactic acidosis secondary to shock, heart
failure, pulmonary disease, hepatic
disease, seizures, strenuous exercise
What Do You See?
 Confusion, dull headache
 Decreased DTRs
 S/S hyperkalemia (abdominal cramps,
diarrhea, muscle weakness, EKG
changes)
 Hypotension, Kussmaul’s respirations
 Lethargy, warm & dry skin
ABG Results
 Uncompensated
 pH < 7.35
 PaCO2 Normal
 HCO3 < 22
 Compensated
 pH Normal
 PaCO2 < 35
 HCO3 < 22
What Do We Do?
 Regular insulin to reverse DKA
 IV bicarb to correct acidosis
 Fluid replacement
 Dialysis for drug toxicity
 Antidiarrheals
Metabolic Alkalosis
 Commonly associated with hypokalemia
from diuretic use, hypochloremia and
hypocalcemia
 Also caused by excessive vomiting, NG
suction, Cushing’s disease, kidney disease
or drugs containing baking soda
What Do You See?
 Anorexia
 Apathy
 Confusion
 Cyanosis
 Hypotension
 Loss of reflexes
 Muscle twitching
 Nausea
 Paresthesia
 Polyuria
 Vomiting
 Weakness
ABG Results
 Uncompensated
 pH > 7.45
 PaCO2 Normal
 HCO3 >26
 Compensated
 pH Normal
 PaCO2 > 45
 HCO3 > 26
What Do We Do?
 IV ammonium chloride
 D/C thiazide diuretics and NG suctioning
 Antiemetics
IV Therapy
 Crystalloids – volume
expander
 Isotonic (D5W, 0.9%
NaCl or Lactated
Ringers)
 Hypotonic (0.45%
NaCl)
 Hypertonic (D5/0.9%
NaCl, D5/0.45% NaCl)
 Colloids – plasma
expander (draw fluid
into the bloodstream)
 Albumin
 Plasma protein
 Dextran
Total Parenteral Nutrition
 Highly concentrated
 Hypertonic solution
 Used for clients with high caloric and
nutritional needs
 Solution contains electrolytes, vitamins,
acetate, micronutrients and amino acids
 Lipid emulsions given in addition
The End
(Whew!!!!!!)

FluidElectrolytesAcidBasefa11.ppt

  • 1.
    Fluid, Electrolyte and Acid-BaseBalance By Linda A. Martin, EdD, MSN APRN, BC, CNE
  • 3.
  • 4.
    General Concepts  Intake= Output = Fluid Balance  Sensible losses  Urination  Defecation  Wound drainage  Insensible losses  Evaporation from skin  Respiratory loss from lungs
  • 5.
    Fluid Compartments  Intracellular 40% of body weight  Extracellular  20% of body weight  Two types  INTERSTITIAL (between)  INTRAVASCULAR (inside)
  • 6.
    Age-Related Fluid Changes Full-term baby - 80%  Lean Adult Male - 60%  Aged client - 40%
  • 7.
    Fluid and ElectrolyteTransport  PASSIVE TRANSPORT SYSTEMS  Diffusion  Filtration  Osmosis  ACTIVE TRANSPORT SYSTEM  Pumping  Requires energy expenditure
  • 8.
    Diffusion  Molecules moveacross a biological membrane from an area of higher to an area of lower concentration  Membrane types  Permeable  Semi-permeable  Impermeable
  • 9.
    Filtration  Movement ofsolute and solvent across a membrane caused by hydrostatic (water pushing) pressure  Occurs at the capillary level  If normal pressure gradient changes (as occurs with right-sided heart failure) edema results from “third spacing”
  • 10.
    Osmosis  Movement ofsolvent from an area of lower solute concentration to one of higher concentration  Occurs through a semipermeable membrane using osmotic (water pulling) pressure
  • 11.
    Active Transport System Solutes can be moved against a concentration gradient  Also called “pumping”  Dependent on the presence of ATP
  • 12.
    Fluid Types  Isotonic Hypotonic  Hypertonic
  • 13.
    Isotonic Solution  Nofluid shift because solutions are equally concentrated  Normal saline solution (0.9% NaCl)
  • 14.
    Hypotonic Solution  Lowersolute concentration  Fluid shifts from hypotonic solution into the more concentrated solution to create a balance (cells swell)  Half-normal saline solution (0.45% NaCl)
  • 15.
    Hypertonic Solution  Highersolute concentration  Fluid is drawn into the hypertonic solution to create a balance (cells shrink)  5% dextrose in normal saline (D5/0.9% NaCl)
  • 16.
    Regulatory Mechanisms  Baroreceptorreflex  Volume receptors  Renin-angiotensin-aldosterone mechanism  Antidiuretic hormone
  • 17.
    Baroreceptor Reflex  Respondto a fall in arterial blood pressure  Located in the atrial walls, vena cava, aortic arch and carotid sinus  Constricts afferent arterioles of the kidney resulting in retention of fluid
  • 18.
    Volume Receptors  Respondto fluid excess in the atria and great vessels  Stimulation of these receptors creates a strong renal response that increases urine output
  • 19.
    Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone  Renin  Enzymesecreted by kidneys when arterial pressure or volume drops  Interacts with angiotensinogen to form angiotensin I (vasoconstrictor)
  • 20.
    Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone  Angiotensin  AngiotensinI is converted in lungs to angiotensin II using ACE (angiotensin converting enzyme)  Produces vasoconstriction to elevate blood pressure  Stimulates adrenal cortex to secrete aldosterone
  • 21.
    Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone  Aldosterone  Mineralocorticoidthat controls Na+ and K+ blood levels  Increases Cl- and HCO3- concentrations and fluid volume
  • 22.
    Aldosterone Negative FeedbackMechanism  ECF & Na+ levels drop  secretion of ACTH by the anterior pituitary  release of aldosterone by the adrenal cortex  fluid and Na+ retention
  • 23.
    Antidiuretic Hormone  Alsocalled vasopressin  Released by posterior pituitary when there is a need to restore intravascular fluid volume  Release is triggered by osmoreceptors in the thirst center of the hypothalamus  Fluid volume excess  decreased ADH  Fluid volume deficit  increased ADH
  • 24.
    Fluid Imbalances  Dehydration Hypovolemia  Hypervolemia  Water intoxication
  • 25.
    Dehydration  Loss ofbody fluids  increased concentration of solutes in the blood and a rise in serum Na+ levels  Fluid shifts out of cells into the blood to restore balance  Cells shrink from fluid loss and can no longer function properly
  • 26.
    Clients at Risk Confused  Comatose  Bedridden  Infants  Elderly  Enterally fed
  • 27.
    What Do YouSee?  Irritability  Confusion  Dizziness  Weakness  Extreme thirst   urine output  Fever  Dry skin/mucous membranes  Sunken eyes  Poor skin turgor  Tachycardia
  • 28.
    What Do WeDo?  Fluid Replacement - oral or IV over 48 hrs.  Monitor symptoms and vital signs  Maintain I&O  Maintain IV access  Daily weights  Skin and mouth care
  • 29.
    Hypovolemia  Isotonic fluidloss from the extracellular space  Can progress to hypovolemic shock  Caused by:  Excessive fluid loss (hemorrhage)  Decreased fluid intake  Third space fluid shifting
  • 30.
    What Do YouSee?  Mental status deterioration  Thirst  Tachycardia  Delayed capillary refill  Orthostatic hypotension  Urine output < 30 ml/hr  Cool, pale extremities  Weight loss
  • 31.
    What Do WeDo?  Fluid replacement  Albumin replacement  Blood transfusions for hemorrhage  Dopamine to maintain BP  MAST trousers for severe shock  Assess for fluid overload with treatment
  • 32.
    Hypervolemia  Excess fluidin the extracellular compartment as a result of fluid or sodium retention, excessive intake, or renal failure  Occurs when compensatory mechanisms fail to restore fluid balance  Leads to CHF and pulmonary edema
  • 33.
    What Do YouSee?  Tachypnea  Dyspnea  Crackles  Rapid, bounding pulse  Hypertension  S3 gallop  Increased CVP, pulmonary artery pressure and pulmonary artery wedge pressure (Swan-Ganz)  JVD  Acute weight gain  Edema
  • 34.
    Edema  Fluid isforced into tissues by the hydrostatic pressure  First seen in dependent areas  Anasarca - severe generalized edema  Pitting edema  Pulmonary edema
  • 35.
    What Do WeDo?  Fluid and Na+ restriction  Diuretics  Monitor vital signs  Hourly I&O  Breath sounds  Monitor ABGs and labs  Elevate HOB and give O2 as ordered  Maintain IV access  Skin & mouth care  Daily weights
  • 36.
    Water Intoxication  Hypotonic extracellularfluid shifts into cells to attempt to restore balance  Cells swell  Causes:  SIADH  Rapid infusion of hypotonic solution  Excessive tap water NG irrigation or enemas  Psychogenic polydipsia
  • 37.
    What Do YouSee?  Signs and symptoms of increased intracranial pressure  Early: change in LOC, N/V, muscle weakness, twitching, cramping  Late: bradycardia, widened pulse pressure, seizures, coma
  • 38.
    What Do WeDo?  Prevention is the best treatment  Assess neuro status  Monitor I&O and vital signs  Fluid restrictions  IV access  Daily weights  Monitor serum Na+  Seizure precautions
  • 39.
  • 40.
    Electrolytes  Charged particlesin solution  Cations (+)  Anions (-)  Integral part of metabolic and cellular processes
  • 41.
    Positive or Negative? Cations (+)  Sodium  Potassium  Calcium  Magnesium  Anions (-)  Chloride  Bicarbonate  Phosphate  Sulfate
  • 42.
    Major Cations  EXTRACELLULAR SODIUM (Na+)  INTRACELLULAR  POTASSIUM (K+)
  • 43.
    Electrolyte Imbalances  Hyponatremia/ hypernatremia Hypokalemia/ Hyperkalemia  Hypomagnesemia/ Hypermagnesemia  Hypocalcemia/ Hypercalcemia  Hypophosphatemia/ Hyperphosphatemia  Hypochloremia/ Hyperchloremia
  • 44.
    Sodium  Major extracellularcation  Attracts fluid and helps preserve fluid volume  Combines with chloride and bicarbonate to help regulate acid-base balance  Normal range of serum sodium 135 - 145 mEq/L
  • 45.
    Sodium and Water If sodium intake suddenly increases, extracellular fluid concentration also rises  Increased serum Na+ increases thirst and the release of ADH, which triggers kidneys to retain water  Aldosterone also has a function in water and sodium conservation when serum Na+ levels are low
  • 46.
    Sodium-Potassium Pump  Sodium(abundant outside cells) tries to get into cells  Potassium (abundant inside cells) tries to get out of cells  Sodium-potassium pump maintains normal concentrations  Pump uses ATP, magnesium and an enzyme to maintain sodium-potassium concentrations  Pump prevents cell swelling and creates an electrical charge allowing neuromuscular impulse transmission
  • 47.
    Hyponatremia  Serum Na+level < 135 mEq/L  Deficiency in Na+ related to amount of body fluid  Several types  Dilutional  Depletional  Hypovolemic  Hypervolemic  Isovolemic
  • 48.
    Types of Hyponatremia Dilutional - results from Na+ loss, water gain  Depletional - insufficient Na+ intake  Hypovolemic - Na+ loss is greater than water loss; can be renal (diuretic use) or non-renal (vomiting)  Hypervolemic - water gain is greater than Na+ gain; edema occurs  Isovolumic - normal Na+ level, too much fluid
  • 49.
    What Do YouSee?  Primarily neurologic symptoms  Headache, N/V, muscle twitching, altered mental status, stupor, seizures, coma  Hypovolemia - poor skin turgor, tachycardia, decreased BP, orthostatic hypotension  Hypervolemia - edema, hypertension, weight gain, bounding tachycardia
  • 50.
    What Do WeDo?  MILD CASE  Restrict fluid intake for hyper/isovolemic hyponatremia  IV fluids and/or increased po Na+ intake for hypovolemic hyponatremia  SEVERE CASE  Infuse hypertonic NaCl solution (3% or 5% NaCl)  Furosemide to remove excess fluid  Monitor client in ICU
  • 51.
    Hypernatremia  Excess Na+relative to body water  Occurs less often than hyponatremia  Thirst is the body’s main defense  When hypernatremia occurs, fluid shifts outside the cells  May be caused by water deficit or over- ingestion of Na+  Also may result from diabetes insipidus
  • 52.
    What Do YouSee?  Think S-A-L-T  Skin flushed  Agitation  Low grade fever  Thirst  Neurological symptoms  Signs of hypovolemia
  • 53.
    What Do WeDo?  Correct underlying disorder  Gradual fluid replacement  Monitor for s/s of cerebral edema  Monitor serum Na+ level  Seizure precautions
  • 54.
    Potassium  Major intracellularcation  Untreated changes in K+ levels can lead to serious neuromuscular and cardiac problems  Normal K+ levels = 3.5 - 5 mEq/L
  • 55.
    Balancing Potassium  MostK+ ingested is excreted by the kidneys  Three other influential factors in K+ balance :  Na+/K+ pump  Renal regulation  pH level
  • 56.
    Sodium/Potassium Pump  UsesATP to pump potassium into cells  Pumps sodium out of cells  Creates a balance
  • 57.
    Renal Regulation  IncreasedK+ levels  increased K+ loss in urine  Aldosterone secretion causes Na+ reabsorption and K+ excretion
  • 58.
    pH  Potassium ionsand hydrogen ions exchange freely across cell membranes  Acidosis  hyperkalemia (K+ moves out of cells)  Alkalosis  hypokalemia (K+ moves into cells)
  • 59.
    Hypokalemia  Serum K+< 3.5 mEq/L  Can be caused by GI losses, diarrhea, insufficient intake, non-K+ sparing diuretics (thiazide, furosemide)
  • 60.
    What Do YouSee?  Think S-U-C-T-I-O-N  Skeletal muscle weakness  U wave (EKG changes)  Constipation, ileus  Toxicity of digitalis glycosides  Irregular, weak pulse  Orthostatic hypotension  Numbness (paresthesias)
  • 61.
    What Do WeDo?  Increase dietary K+  Oral KCl supplements  IV K+ replacement  Change to K+-sparing diuretic  Monitor EKG changes
  • 62.
    IV K+ Replacement Mix well when adding to an IV solution bag  Concentrations should not exceed 40-60 mEq/L  Rates usually 10- 20 mEq/hr NEVER GIVE IV PUSH POTASSIUM
  • 63.
    Hyperkalemia  Serum K+> 5 mEq/L  Less common than hypokalemia  Caused by altered kidney function, increased intake (salt substitutes), blood transfusions, meds (K+-sparing diuretics), cell death (trauma)
  • 64.
    What Do YouSee?  Irritability  Paresthesia  Muscle weakness (especially legs)  EKG changes (tented T wave)  Irregular pulse  Hypotension  Nausea, abdominal cramps, diarrhea
  • 65.
    What Do WeDo?  Mild  Loop diuretics (Lasix)  Dietary restriction  Moderate  Kayexalate  Emergency  10% calcium gluconate for cardiac effects  Sodium bicarbonate for acidosis
  • 66.
    Magnesium  Helps produceATP  Role in protein synthesis & carbohydrate metabolism  Helps cardiovascular system function (vasodilation)  Regulates muscle contractions
  • 67.
    Hypomagnesemia  Serum Mg++level < 1.5 mEq/L  Caused by poor dietary intake, poor GI absorption, excessive GI/urinary losses  High risk clients  Chronic alcoholism  Malabsorption  GI/urinary system disorders  Sepsis  Burns  Wounds needing debridement
  • 68.
    What Do YouSee?  CNS  Altered LOC  Confusion  Hallucinations
  • 69.
    What Do YouSee?  Neuromuscular  Muscle weakness  Leg/foot cramps  Hyper DTRs  Tetany  Chvostek’s & Trousseau’s signs
  • 70.
    What Do YouSee?  Cardiovascular  Tachycardia  Hypertension  EKG changes
  • 71.
    What Do YouSee?  Gastrointestinal  Dysphagia  Anorexia  Nausea/vomiting
  • 72.
    What Do WeDo?  Mild  Dietary replacement  Severe  IV or IM magnesium sulfate  Monitor  Neuro status  Cardiac status  Safety
  • 73.
    Mag Sulfate Infusion Use infusion pump - no faster than 150 mg/min  Monitor vital signs for hypotension and respiratory distress  Monitor serum Mg++ level q6h  Cardiac monitoring  Calcium gluconate as an antidote for overdosage
  • 74.
    Hypermagnesemia  Serum Mg++level > 2.5 mEq/L  Not common  Renal dysfunction is most common cause  Renal failure  Addison’s disease  Adrenocortical insufficiency  Untreated DKA
  • 75.
    What Do YouSee?  Decreased neuromuscular activity  Hypoactive DTRs  Generalized weakness  Occasionally nausea/vomiting
  • 76.
    What Do WeDo?  Increased fluids if renal function normal  Loop diuretic if no response to fluids  Calcium gluconate for toxicity  Mechanical ventilation for respiratory depression  Hemodialysis (Mg++-free dialysate)
  • 77.
    Calcium  99% inbones, 1% in serum and soft tissue (measured by serum Ca++)  Works with phosphorus to form bones and teeth  Role in cell membrane permeability  Affects cardiac muscle contraction  Participates in blood clotting
  • 78.
    Calcium Regulation  Affectedby body stores of Ca++ and by dietary intake & Vitamin D intake  Parathyroid hormone draws Ca++ from bones increasing low serum levels (Parathyroid pulls)  With high Ca++ levels, calcitonin is released by the thyroid to inhibit calcium loss from bone (Calcitonin keeps)
  • 79.
    Hypocalcemia  Serum calcium< 8.9 mg/dl  Ionized calcium level < 4.5 mg/Dl  Caused by inadequate intake, malabsorption, pancreatitis, thyroid or parathyroid surgery, loop diuretics, low magnesium levels
  • 80.
    What Do YouSee?  Neuromuscular  Anxiety, confusion, irritability, muscle twitching, paresthesias (mouth, fingers, toes), tetany  Fractures  Diarrhea  Diminished response to digoxin  EKG changes
  • 81.
    What Do WeDo?  Calcium gluconate for postop thyroid or parathyroid client  Cardiac monitoring  Oral or IV calcium replacement
  • 82.
    Hypercalcemia  Serum calcium> 10.1 mg/dl  Ionized calcium > 5.1 mg/dl  Two major causes  Cancer  Hyperparathyroidism
  • 83.
    What Do YouSee?  Fatigue, confusion, lethargy, coma  Muscle weakness, hyporeflexia  Bradycardia  cardiac arrest  Anorexia, nausea/vomiting, decreased bowel sounds, constipation  Polyuria, renal calculi, renal failure
  • 84.
    What Do WeDo?  If asymptomatic, treat underlying cause  Hydrate the patient to encourage diuresis  Loop diuretics  Corticosteroids
  • 85.
    Phosphorus  The primaryanion in the intracellular fluid  Crucial to cell membrane integrity, muscle function, neurologic function and metabolism of carbs, fats and protein  Functions in ATP formation, phagocytosis, platelet function and formation of bones and teeth
  • 86.
    Hypophosphatemia  Serum phosphorus< 2.5 mg/dl  Can lead to organ system failure  Caused by respiratory alkalosis (hyperventilation), insulin release, malabsorption, diuretics, DKA, elevated parathyroid hormone levels, extensive burns
  • 87.
    What Do YouSee?  Musculoskeletal  muscle weakness  respiratory muscle failure  osteomalacia  pathological fractures  CNS  confusion, anxiety, seizures, coma  Cardiac  hypotension  decreased cardiac output  Hematologic  hemolytic anemia  easy bruising  infection risk
  • 88.
    What Do WeDo?  MILD/MODERATE  Dietary interventions  Oral supplements  SEVERE  IV replacement using potassium phosphate or sodium phosphate
  • 89.
    Hyperphosphatemia  Serum phosphorus> 4.5 mg/dl  Caused by impaired kidney function, cell damage, hypoparathyroidism, respiratory acidosis, DKA, increased dietary intake
  • 90.
    What Do YouSee?  Think C-H-E-M-O  Cardiac irregularities  Hyperreflexia  Eating poorly  Muscle weakness  Oliguria
  • 91.
    What Do WeDo?  Low-phosphorus diet  Decrease absorption with antacids that bind phosphorus  Treat underlying cause of respiratory acidosis or DKA  IV saline for severe hyperphosphatemia in patients with good kidney function
  • 92.
    Chloride  Major extracellularanion  Sodium and chloride maintain water balance  Secreted in the stomach as hydrochloric acid  Aids carbon dioxide transport in blood
  • 93.
    Hypochloremia  Serum chloride< 96 mEq/L  Caused by decreased intake or decreased absorption, metabolic alkalosis, and loop, osmotic or thiazide diuretics
  • 94.
    What Do YouSee?  Agitation, irritability  Hyperactive DTRs, tetany  Muscle cramps, hypertonicity  Shallow, slow respirations  Seizures, coma  Arrhythmias
  • 95.
    What Do WeDo?  Treat underlying cause  Oral or IV replacement in a sodium chloride or potassium chloride solution
  • 96.
    Hyperchloremia  Serum chloride> 106 mEq/L  Rarely occurs alone  Caused by dehydration, renal failure, respiratory alkalosis, salicylate toxicity, hyperpara-thyroidism, hyperaldosteronism, hypernatremia
  • 97.
    What Do YouSee?  Metabolic Acidosis  Decreased LOC  Kussmaul’s respirations  Weakness  Hypernatremia  Agitation  Tachycardia, dyspnea, tachypnea, HTN  Edema
  • 98.
    What Do WeDo?  Correct underlying cause  Restore fluid, electrolyte and acid-base balance  IV Lactated Ringer’s solution to correct acidosis
  • 99.
  • 100.
    Acid-Base Basics  Balancedepends on regulation of free hydrogen ions  Concentration of hydrogen ions is measured in pH  Arterial blood gases are the major diagnostic tool for evaluating acid- base balance
  • 101.
    Arterial Blood Gases pH 7.35 - 7.45  PaCO2 35 - 45 mmHg  HCO3 22-26 mEq/L
  • 102.
    Acidosis  pH <7.35  Caused by accumulation of acids or by a loss of bases
  • 103.
    Alkalosis  pH >7.45  Occurs when bases accumulate or acids are lost
  • 104.
    Regulatory Systems  Threesystems come into play when pH rises or falls  Chemical buffers  Respiratory system  Kidneys
  • 105.
    Chemical Buffers  Immediateacting  Combine with offending acid or base to neutralize harmful effects until another system takes over  Bicarb buffer - mainly responsible for buffering blood and interstitial fluid  Phosphate buffer - effective in renal tubules  Protein buffers - most plentiful - hemoglobin
  • 106.
    Respiratory System  Lungsregulate blood levels of CO2  CO2 + H2O = Carbonic acid  High CO2 = slower breathing (hold on to carbonic acid and lower pH)  Low CO2 = faster breathing (blow off carbonic acid and raise pH)  Twice as effective as chemical buffers, but effects are temporary
  • 107.
    Kidneys  Reabsorb orexcrete excess acids or bases into urine  Produce bicarbonate  Adjustments by the kidneys take hours to days to accomplish  Bicarbonate levels and pH levels increase or decrease together
  • 108.
    Arterial Blood Gases(ABG)  Uses blood from an arterial puncture  Three test results relate to acid-base balance  pH  PaCO2  HCO3
  • 109.
    Interpreting ABGs  Step1 - check the pH  Step 2 - What is the CO2?  Step 3 - Watch the bicarb  Step 4 - Look for compensation  Step 5 - What is the PaO2 and SaO2?
  • 110.
    Step 1 -Check the pH  pH < 7.35 = acidosis  pH > 7.45 = alkalosis  Move on to Step 2
  • 111.
    Step 2 -What is the CO2?  PaCO2 gives info about the respiratory component of acid-base balance  If abnormal, does the change correspond with change in pH?  High pH expects low PaCO2 (hypocapnia)  Low pH expects high PaCO2 (hypercapnia)
  • 112.
    Step 3 –Watch the Bicarb  Provides info regarding metabolic aspect of acid-base balance  If pH is high, bicarb expected to be high (metabolic alkalosis)  If pH is low, bicarb expected to be low (metabolic acidosis)
  • 113.
    Step 4 –Look for Compensation  If a change is seen in BOTH PaCO2 and bicarbonate, the body is trying to compensate  Compensation occurs as opposites, (Example: for metabolic acidosis, compensation shows respiratory alkalosis)
  • 114.
    Step 5 –What is the PaO2 and SaO2  PaO2 reflects ability to pickup O2 from lungs  SaO2 less than 95% is inadequate oxygenation  Low PaO2 indicates hypoxemia
  • 115.
    Acid-Base Imbalances  RespiratoryAcidosis  Respiratory Alkalosis  Metabolic Acidosis  Metabolic Alkalosis
  • 116.
    Respiratory Acidosis  Anycompromise in breathing can result in respiratory acidosis  Hypoventilation carbon dioxide buildup and drop in pH  Can result from neuromuscular trouble, depression of the brain’s respiratory center, lung disease or airway obstruction
  • 117.
    Clients At Risk Post op abdominal surgery  Mechanical ventilation  Analgesics or sedation
  • 118.
    What Do YouSee?  Apprehension, restlessness  Confusion, tremors  Decreased DTRs  Diaphoresis  Dyspnea, tachycardia  N/V, warm flushed skin
  • 119.
    ABG Results  Uncompensated pH < 7.35  PaCO2 >45  HCO3 Normal  Compensated  pH Normal  PaCO2 >45  HCO3 > 26
  • 120.
    What Do WeDo?  Correct underlying cause  Bronchodilators  Supplemental oxygen  Treat hyperkalemia  Antibiotics for infection  Chest PT to remove secretions  Remove foreign body obstruction
  • 121.
    Respiratory Alkalosis  Mostcommonly results from hyperventilation caused by pain, salicylate poisoning, use of nicotine or aminophylline, hypermetabolic states or acute hypoxia (overstimulates the respiratory center)
  • 122.
    What Do YouSee?  Anxiety, restlessness  Diaphoresis  Dyspnea ( rate and depth)  EKG changes  Hyperreflexia, paresthesias  Tachycardia  Tetany
  • 123.
    ABG Results  Uncompensated pH > 7.45  PaCO2 < 35  HCO3 Normal  Compensated  pH Normal  PaCO2 < 35  HCO3 < 22
  • 124.
    What Do WeDo?  Correct underlying disorder  Oxygen therapy for hypoxemia  Sedatives or antianxiety agents  Paper bag breathing for hyperventilation
  • 125.
    Metabolic Acidosis  Characterizedby gain of acid or loss of bicarb  Associated with ketone bodies  Diabetes mellitus, alcoholism, starvation, hyperthyroidism  Other causes  Lactic acidosis secondary to shock, heart failure, pulmonary disease, hepatic disease, seizures, strenuous exercise
  • 126.
    What Do YouSee?  Confusion, dull headache  Decreased DTRs  S/S hyperkalemia (abdominal cramps, diarrhea, muscle weakness, EKG changes)  Hypotension, Kussmaul’s respirations  Lethargy, warm & dry skin
  • 127.
    ABG Results  Uncompensated pH < 7.35  PaCO2 Normal  HCO3 < 22  Compensated  pH Normal  PaCO2 < 35  HCO3 < 22
  • 128.
    What Do WeDo?  Regular insulin to reverse DKA  IV bicarb to correct acidosis  Fluid replacement  Dialysis for drug toxicity  Antidiarrheals
  • 129.
    Metabolic Alkalosis  Commonlyassociated with hypokalemia from diuretic use, hypochloremia and hypocalcemia  Also caused by excessive vomiting, NG suction, Cushing’s disease, kidney disease or drugs containing baking soda
  • 130.
    What Do YouSee?  Anorexia  Apathy  Confusion  Cyanosis  Hypotension  Loss of reflexes  Muscle twitching  Nausea  Paresthesia  Polyuria  Vomiting  Weakness
  • 131.
    ABG Results  Uncompensated pH > 7.45  PaCO2 Normal  HCO3 >26  Compensated  pH Normal  PaCO2 > 45  HCO3 > 26
  • 132.
    What Do WeDo?  IV ammonium chloride  D/C thiazide diuretics and NG suctioning  Antiemetics
  • 133.
    IV Therapy  Crystalloids– volume expander  Isotonic (D5W, 0.9% NaCl or Lactated Ringers)  Hypotonic (0.45% NaCl)  Hypertonic (D5/0.9% NaCl, D5/0.45% NaCl)  Colloids – plasma expander (draw fluid into the bloodstream)  Albumin  Plasma protein  Dextran
  • 134.
    Total Parenteral Nutrition Highly concentrated  Hypertonic solution  Used for clients with high caloric and nutritional needs  Solution contains electrolytes, vitamins, acetate, micronutrients and amino acids  Lipid emulsions given in addition
  • 135.