ASPEN Fluids, Electrolytes Handbook

Level 2 & 3 CPE

CPE Type: 740 Online/Web-based Course

Upon successful completion, the users will be able to:

1. Calculate a person’s total body water (TBW).

2. Describe causes, signs, and symptoms of hyper- and hypo- states of sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus.

3. Define osmolality and describe effects of isotonic, hypotonic, and hypertonic solutions on cells in the body.

4. List one example of an isotonic, hypotonic, hypertonic, colloid, and crystalloid solutions used in intravenous therapy.

5. Identify signs, symptoms and actions for fluid volume excess and fluid volume deficit.

6. Describe the function of the following electrolytes: sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus.

7. Identify the approximate normal lab ranges for blood pressure, serum sodium, serum osmolality, urine sodium, glucose, and blood urea nitrogen (BUN). 

8. Describe four acid base disorders and the influence of the respiratory system on this balance.

9. Identify which three minerals are often lost in refeeding syndrome.

10. Describe the diet that increases renal magnesium excretion.

11. Distinguish between acidosis and alkalosis resulting from respiratory and metabolic factors.

12. Describe the mechanisms involved in regulating sodium balance, blood volume and blood pressure.

13. Describe the physiology of fluid and electrolyte balance.

14. Describe imbalances of fluid homeostasis and their consequences.

15. List medications and treatments that put patients at risk for fluid imbalance.

16. List key electrolytes for maintaining fluid balance.

17. Identify common clinical conditions associated with fluid and electrolyte disorders.

18. Discuss three nutritional considerations when a person has hypocalcemia.

19. Identify the dietary restrictions needed for a person with cirrhosis and ascites.

20. Describe refeeding syndrome and identify three nutrients and conditions of particular importance to the person’s recovery.