Deck · NCLEX-PN
Physiological Adaptation
Fluid and electrolytes, body-system alterations, emergencies, and unexpected responses to therapy (10% of the exam).
120 cards · audited · SM-2 spaced repetition
Included with the full NCLEX-PN program — 8 decks, 1,189 cards.
Sample cards
What is the normal serum sodium range?
135–145 mEq/L. Sodium is the major extracellular cation and the main determinant of serum osmolality.
Why does hyponatremia cause confusion and seizures?
Low serum sodium pulls water into brain cells by osmosis, causing cerebral edema — leading to headache, confusion, lethargy, and seizures when severe.
What are common causes of hyponatremia?
Excess water relative to sodium: SIADH, excessive plain water intake, diuretics, vomiting/diarrhea with hypotonic fluid replacement, and heart failure dilution.
What safety action is the priority for a patient with severe hyponatremia?
Seizure precautions — pad rails, suction and oxygen at the bedside — because cerebral edema lowers the seizure threshold. Restrict free water as ordered.
What signs suggest hypernatremia?
Thirst, dry sticky mucous membranes, restlessness, agitation, and twitching — think 'big and bloated or dry and agitated.' Cells shrink as water shifts out of them.
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