3 Nursing Management of Fluid Imbalances Free Online FlashCards

What defines fluid volume deficit?

Fluid volume deficit occurs when fluid losses exceed intake, reducing circulating volume and potentially impairing tissue perfusion.

What defines fluid volume excess?

Fluid volume excess occurs when the body retains more fluid than it can effectively circulate and eliminate.

Which conditions can cause fluid volume deficit?

Vomiting, diarrhea, bleeding, fever, sweating, burns, poor intake, excessive urination, and diuretic use can cause fluid volume deficit.

What findings may indicate fluid volume deficit?

Possible findings include thirst, dry mucous membranes, dizziness, delayed capillary refill, confusion, tachycardia, hypotension, weak pulses, concentrated urine, and reduced urine output.

What findings may indicate fluid volume excess?

Possible findings include rapid weight gain, dependent pitting edema, jugular venous distention, bounding pulses, increased blood pressure, crackles, cough, or dyspnea.

What respiratory changes during an infusion may signal pulmonary edema?

New or worsening breathlessness, falling oxygen saturation, or crackles during an infusion may indicate pulmonary edema and require an urgent response.

How should findings be used to assess fluid status?

Interpret assessment findings together and as trends; no single sign or laboratory result establishes fluid status.

How is the fluid replacement route selected for a deficit?

Use oral or enteral intake when the patient can safely take and absorb fluids. IV therapy may be used when these routes cannot meet needs or urgent resuscitation is needed.

What must the nurse verify when administering IV fluids?

Confirm the prescribed fluid, rate, volume, and indication; use prescribed pump settings and facility policy. Do not independently change the solution or rate.

What should guide replacement of ongoing losses and electrolyte deficits?

Maintenance needs, an existing deficit, and continuing losses are distinct considerations. Replace electrolytes only as ordered, with appropriate laboratory monitoring.

What should a fluid-restriction plan include?

Confirm the prescribed allowance, count fluids from all sources according to facility practice, explain the plan, and offer comfort measures compatible with the restriction.

What should be monitored during prescribed diuretic therapy?

Monitor urine output, blood pressure, weight, symptoms, renal function, and electrolytes. Diuresis can cause volume depletion or electrolyte abnormalities.