INTRODUCTION
Electrolyte imbalances and acid-base
disturbances occur frequently in the hospitalized patient, and both have potentially
life-threatening consequences. Interpretation of laboratory data is fundamental in
recognizing these problems, and confidence in interpreting lab data is an essential
characteristic of an expert clinician. This seminar provides nurses with the opportunity
to develop expertise in interpreting lab data and in recognizing clinical symptoms and ECG
findings consistent with electrolyte and acid-base disturbances. Practical aspects of
treating these disorders are addressed in detail, and case studies are included to ensure
direct clinical application.
Examples of
questions that will be answered during this seminar include:
 | Can inhaled albuterol be used to treat
hyperkalemia?
|
| What are the three electrolyte imbalances that
enhance the effects of digitalis?
|
| What are two causes of refractory hypokalemia?
|
| Is IV magnesium a better atrial or ventricular
antiarrhythmic agent?
|
| What three electrolyte imbalances can cause
Torsades de Pointes?
|
| What is the relationship of hypophosphatemia to
ventilator dependence?
|
| True or False: Hypernatremia is always
associated with volume depletion.
|
| True or False: Hyponatremia is always
associated with volume overload.
|
| What is the relationship between arterial pH
and the ionized calcium?
|
| IV insulin can be used to treat three
electrolyte imbalances. What are they?
|
| Does CO2 on the serum electrolyte
profile represent an acid or a base?
|
| Why should sodium bicarbonate infusions be
mixed in a hypotonic solution, e.g. D5W or 0.45% saline?
|
| The pharmacy has supplied KCL 20 meq/100mL D5W.
Is it acceptable to administer this through a peripheral IV?
|
| What is a life-threatening complication of
excessive magnesium administration?
|
| How much potassium chloride can safely be
administered during one hour as a general guideline?
|
| If the solution to be used in administering a
piggyback medication is not specified in the physician’s order, what should you
consider in selecting one?
|
| How do you calculate an anion gap and what it
its usefulness from a nursing perspective?
|
| Which IV fluids are isotonic?
|
| What is the difference in calcium chloride and
calcium gluconate?
|
| What are the indications for administering
hypertonic saline? |
