Fluids and Electrolytes Hyper/Hypo

missnurse01, MSN, RN · May 8, 2012

book fluids and electrolytes made easy...prob at the library.

really it takes time and studying them over and over and over. I know it was so confusing in school. there are some that have similar s/s and patho, and also some that are linked by being exactly opposite (when one is high the other is low). I would try to fit them into similar groups to help get a better handle on it. good luck!

Esme12, ASN, BSN, RN · May 10, 2012

So I am currently in MED. Surg and we are studying fluids and electrolytes with the HYPER HYPO in the main electrolytes
Potassium
Sodium
Calcium
Magnesium
Phosphorous
I am trying to find a good way to study and understand. I know that the Hyper signs and symptoms are the opposite of the HYPO for the most part ( some GI are opposite) now my question is our teacher is really stressing the importance of knowing the pathophysiology of WHY the signs and symptoms are occurring in the patient. I am finding that is what I am having a hard time understanding the entire picture.
I really appreciate any help / tips or ideas anyone can give to this.

Fluid and electrolytes is one of the harder concepts in nursing. Knowing the cause of the imbalance is usually the clue to the cure. All those electrolytes are the "batteries" that allow the body to function appropriately. When they are out of whack they are life threatening. There are specific disease processes that cause certain electrolyte imbalances.

Why the body needs balance......http://www.nursingcenter.com/prodev/ce_article.asp?tid=666737

Fluids, Electrolytes, and Acid-Base Disorders « Emergency Medicine

Medscape is an awesome site.....you need to register but it is free. It is an excellent resource. Each link presents a process/presentation One link talks about pathophys and the other about clinical presentation. Once registered the links will lead you right to the information. Unfortunately only memorization will help.

Hyperkalemia

Medscape: Medscape Access

Hypokalemia

Medscape: Medscape Access

Hypernatremia

Medscape: Medscape Access

Hyponatremia

Medscape: Medscape Access

Hypercalcemia

Medscape: Medscape Access

Hypocalcemia

Medscape: Medscape Access

Hyperphosphatemia

Medscape: Medscape Access

Hypophosphatemia

Medscape: Medscape Access

nurseprnRN, BSN, RN · May 11, 2012

a few resources: the physiology coloring book (really) will give you a solid understanding of the physiology you will need for all your working life.

laboratory studies and diagnostic tests and nursing implications, joyce lefever kee. just what it says, and when they tell you that you have to know about labs and preps and results for nclex you will laugh and say, "i got that covered."

i promise you, when this all falls into place for you it will make your life so much easier. and your patients will get better care.