BAKERSFIELD COLLEGE
LICENSED VOCATIONAL NURSING PROGRAM
1ST SEMESTER FUNDAMENTALS
SCIENTIFIC BASIS FOR NURSING PRACTICE
CHAPTER 41 – FLUID, ELECTROLYTE BALANCE: INTAKE AND OUTPUT
INTRODUCTION
The goal of this unit is to assist you to assess, diagnosis, plan, and implement nursing interventions, and evaluate the effectiveness of some of the therapies for a client who has an actual or potential problem related to fluid and electrolyte imbalance.
OBJECTIVES
Upon completion of this unit, the student will be able to:
A. Theory
1. Define the selected terms associated with fluid and electrolyte balances.
2. Describe the laboratory studies associated with fluid and electrolyte imbalances.
3. State nursing diagnoses associated with fluid and electrolyte imbalances.
4. Describe fluids used for oral replacement of fluid losses.
5. Discuss the purpose of IV therapy.
6. Describe the allotment of oral fluids for a 24 hour period for someone on restricted fluids.
7. State some of the signs and symptoms of fluid imbalances.
B. Laboratory
1. Measure and record fluid intake and output.
2. Weigh and measure the height of a client.
ASSIGNMENT
A. Read Chapter 41- Potter & Perry, pgs. 966 – 992 (not necessary to review how to place an IV), do related Review Questions
B. Complete the assignment on I & O Handout as directed.
Chapter 41
Fluid, Electrolyte, and Acid-Base Balance
Scientific Knowledge Base:
Distribution of Body Fluids
Composition of Body Fluids
Electrolyte:
Ø An element or compound that, when dissolved or dissociated in water or solvent, separates into ions
Ions:
Ø Cations: positively charged
Ø Anions: negatively charged
Movement of Body Fluids
Regulation of Body Fluids
Regulation of Electrolytes
Disturbances in Electrolyte, Fluid, and Acid-Base Balances
Nursing Knowledge Base
Fluid and electrolyte imbalances can severely affect infants, as well as the severely ill, disoriented, or immobile.
Prolonged or severe compromises may lead to irreversible chronic health problems.
Nursing Process Assessment
Age
Past medical history
Environment
Diet
Lifestyle
Medication
Physical Assessment
Daily weights
Intake and output
Laboratory studies
Nursing Diagnosis
Multiple body systems may be involved.
Critical thinking must be used when suspected fluid, electrolyte, and acid-base imbalances occur.
Use NANDA-I–approved list of nursing diagnoses.
Planning
Goals and outcomes
Setting priorities
Collaborative care
Implementation
Enteral replacement of fluids
Restriction of fluids
Parenteral replacement of fluids
Total parenteral nutrition
IV Therapy
Crystalloids
Vascular access devices
Types of solutions
Evaluation
To determine the effectiveness of interventions
To determine if clients have met their goals/outcomes