Unit 3 Med Surg

Sodium is the most important electrolyte for the retention of water. It plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of fluids in the body. Sodium helps regulate the body's water levels by controlling the movement of water in and out of cells. It works in conjunction with other electrolytes to ensure proper hydration and prevent dehydration. Without sufficient sodium, the body may not be able to retain water effectively, leading to dehydration and various health issues. Therefore, sodium is essential for the retention of water in the body.

The concentration of electrolytes in a solution is measured in milliequivalents per liter (mEq/L). This unit of measurement is commonly used in medical and scientific fields to express the amount of ions present in a given volume of solution. It takes into account the charge of the ions and allows for accurate comparison of electrolyte concentrations across different solutions. Other units listed, such as mg/cc (milligrams per cubic centimeter), cc/ml (cubic centimeters per milliliter), and gr (grams), are not typically used for measuring electrolyte concentrations.

The correct answer is intracellular because it refers to the compartment that contains all water and ions inside the cells. This term specifically describes the space within the cell membrane where cellular processes take place. It is different from the interstitial and intravascular compartments, which refer to spaces outside of the cells in the extracellular environment.

The correct answer is "Intravascular." This term refers to the fluid that is present within the blood vessels, including the plasma in the blood vessels and the lymph in the lymphatic system. It is important to note that this fluid is extracellular, meaning it is outside of the cells in the body.

The given answer includes four key factors that need to be considered when assessing a patient receiving Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN). Glucose levels need to be monitored to ensure proper glycemic control and prevent hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia. Weight is an important parameter to assess for any changes that may indicate fluid retention or loss. Plebitis, which is inflammation of the vein, can occur due to the TPN administration and should be monitored for. Lastly, fluid balance is crucial to assess to prevent fluid overload or dehydration in the patient receiving TPN.

The term "interstitial" refers to the fluid that is present in the tissue spaces around each cell. This fluid is located outside of the cell, hence it is considered extracellular. However, it is specifically referred to as interstitial fluid because it fills the gaps or interstices between cells within the tissues. This fluid plays a crucial role in providing nutrients and removing waste products from the cells.

Fluid loss can occur through various routes in the body. The skin is one of the routes through which fluid loss can happen, with an estimated range of 300-400 mL. The lungs also contribute to fluid loss through respiration, with a similar range of 300-400 mL. The gastrointestinal (GI) tract is another route, with an estimated fluid loss of 200 mL. The kidneys play a major role in fluid regulation and can contribute to significant fluid loss, ranging from 1200-1500 mL.

The correct answer includes three nursing actions for blood reactions. The first action is to stop the transfusion to prevent further complications. The second action is to keep the vein open with normal saline (NS) to maintain intravenous access for any necessary interventions. The third action is to notify the medical doctor (MD) to inform them about the blood reaction and seek further guidance or orders. These actions ensure prompt and appropriate management of blood reactions to ensure patient safety and well-being.