J.T. is an 84 year old male who presented to the Emergency Department with complaints of
severe vomiting for the last 4 days.
He does not have significant past medical history.
On
assessment he notes that he is feeling dizzy and feels unsteady when he is walking.
He also
complains of increased lethargy and weakness.
He states that he is thirsty but feels to nauseated
to eat.
His vital signs are as follows:
37.2F, HR 138 bpm, BP 88/36, RR 22.
Labwork showing:
Na: 148
K: 4.9
Bicarb: 18
Creatinine: 4.7
WBC: 18.4K
Hgb/Hct: 18/40
Given this information what is your patients fluid balance?
Why do you think that? (2.5 points)
What would your physical assessment findings likely include? (2.5 points)
Choose from one of the following:
Create a chart below that helps you to better understand where fluid can go and where you will
see the highest concentration of different electrolytes (5 points)
Electrolytes to include: potassium, sodium, calcium
Please be creative and remember this is to help you study.
-OR-
If you do not want to create a chart you can find an article about fluid volume status and
assessment strategies, and summarize it.
Must be within the last 5 years. (5 points).
