NCLEX-PN

●​ Signs and Symptoms : Agitation, thirst, restlessness, dry mucous membranes, confusion, seizures, and coma. ●​ Treatment : Address underlying causes, gradual correction, dietary sodium restriction (careful to avoid rapid changes). b.​ Hyponatremia (Low Sodium Levels) ●​ Causes : Syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone, diuretics, water intoxication, thyroid disorders, renal failure, heart failure, and various diseases. ●​ Signs and Symptoms : Confusion, vomiting, seizures, muscle weakness, nausea, headaches, fatigue, restlessness, and irritability. ●​ Treatment : Address underlying causes, diuretic medications, fluid restriction (as directed), intravenous sodium, hormone replacement if necessary. 2.​ Potassium (K+) : Normal Range: 3.7-5.2 mEq/L a.​ Hyperkalemia (High Potassium Levels) ●​ Causes : Renal disease, certain medications, life-threatening cardiac dysrhythmias, and more. ●​ Signs and Symptoms : Muscular weakness, paralysis, nausea, cardiac dysrhythmias, potentially life-threatening. ●​ Treatment : Immediate intervention required (renal dialysis, potassium-lowering medications, dietary potassium restriction). b.​ Hypokalemia (Low Potassium Levels): ●​ Causes: Diuretic use, uncontrolled diabetes, gastrointestinal disorders, certain medications, and more. ●​ Signs and Symptoms : Muscular weakness, spasms, tingling, numbness, fatigue, palpitations, constipation, bradycardia, and, in severe cases, cardiac arrest. ●​ Treatment : Correct underlying cause, supplemental potassium. 3.​ Calcium (Ca+) : Normal Level: 8.5-10.6 mg/dL a.​ Hypercalcemia (High Calcium Levels) ●​ Causes : Hyperparathyroidism, some medications, certain cancers, and more. ●​ Signs and Symptoms : Thirst, renal stones, anorexia, paresthesia, urinary frequency, bone pain, confusion, fatigue, constipation, nausea, and vomiting.

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