Week 8 discussion

Electrolyte Disorders

When an electrolyte disorder occurs, it disrupts the balance
of ionized salts in the blood. Since electrolytes regulate physiological
functions in the body, if left untreated, electrolyte disorders can cause harm
to multiple body systems. This results in a variety of symptoms which are
sometimes severe and life threatening. In this Discussion, you explore common
electrolyte disorders and their potential causes, as well as the impact of the
disorders on patients.

To prepare:

Review Chapters 207, 208, and 241 of the Buttaro et al.
text, as well as the Adams et al. and Assadi articles in this week’s Learning
Resources.

Select one of the following electrolyte disorders:
hyperkalemia and hypokalemia; hypercalcemia and hypocalcemia; hypernatremia and
hyponatremia; hypermagnesemia and hypomagnesemia. Reflect on signs and symptoms
of this disorder.

Consider potential causes of the disorder that you selected.
Reflect on whether that disorder is iatrogenic or a result of prescribed drugs.

Think about the impact of this electrolyte disorder on
patients. Consider how the disorder affects other body systems.

Post on or before Day 3 a description of the electrolyte
disorder that you selected as well as signs and symptoms. Then, explain
potential causes of the disorder including whether it is iatrogenic or a result
of prescribed drugs. Finally, describe the impact of the disorder on patients
and their body systems.

Read a selection of your colleagues’ responses.

Respond on or before Day 6 to at least two of your
colleagues on two different days who selected different disorders than you.
Expand on your colleagues’ postings by providing additional insights or
contrasting perspectives based on readings and evidence. Evidence can be from
an article or a case from your own clinical experience.

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