Medical-surgical Nursing Demystified

(Sean Pound) #1

CHAPTER 11 Fluids and Electrolytes^443


NURSING INTERVENTION



  • Monitor intake and output.

  • Monitor vital signs; may see hypotension with intravenous phosphate infusion.

  • Explain to the patient:

    • Diet of turkey, skim milk and milk products, and dried fruits.




Hyperphosphatemia


WHAT WENT WRONG?


Hyperphosphatemia is a higher-than-normal amount of phosphorus in the blood.
Patients may develop increased phosphate levels as a result of renal insufficiency,
increase in phosphorus intake (supplements, laxatives, enemas, excess vitamin D),
hypoparathyroidism, rhabdomyolysis, or as a result of cell destruction from chemo-
therapy. As phosphate levels increase, calcium levels decrease.


PROGNOSIS


Correction or management of the underlying cause is necessary to help restore the
electrolyte balance.


HALLMARK SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS



  • Asymptomatic

  • Symptoms of underlying disorder, such as renal disease

  • May see symptoms of coexisting electrolyte disorders, such as hypocalcemia


INTERPRETING TEST RESULTS



  • Phosphorus > 4.6 mEq/L in blood serum.


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