BIOS 256 Week 5 Case Study Fluid, Electrolyte, Acid/Base

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Chamberlain University

BIOS-256: Anatomy & Physiology IV with Lab

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Week 5: Case Study 2

1. Impacts of Vomiting on Electrolyte Balance

Vomiting results in the loss of gastric contents, including hydrochloric acid (HCl), which can lead to dehydration, metabolic alkalosis, hypochloremia, and hypokalemia. As gastric fluid is expelled, vital electrolytes such as sodium chloride, hydrogen ions, and potassium are lost. The kidneys will try to compensate for this loss by excreting excess bicarbonate (HCO3) in order to maintain a stable internal environment. In the process, the body may sacrifice hydrogen ions to conserve sodium, as it prioritizes the most critical ions for survival. Loss of body fluids through vomiting disrupts the electrolyte balance, causing a shift in ions necessary for maintaining homeostasis.

2. Decreased Electrolyte Levels Due to Repeated Vomiting

Repeated vomiting further exacerbates the depletion of electrolytes, especially chloride. As electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, bicarbonates, and chloride are lost, the body’s ability to maintain proper electrolyte balance becomes compromised. The excessive expulsion of gastric acid reduces chloride and hydrogen ions, contributing to hypochloremic metabolic alkalosis. This condition causes an increase in blood pH due to the accumulation of bicarbonate and carbon dioxide, which can be dangerous if not addressed.

3. Role of Normal Saline in Fluid and Electrolyte Balance

Normal saline, when administered intravenously (IV), ensures that there is no significant movement of fluid or electrolytes into or out of the cells. This solution helps prevent cellular swelling or shrinking, providing the cells with protection during hydration. As a result, normal saline helps stabilize the body’s fluid and electrolyte balance, especially when fluid losses are occurring due to vomiting or dehydration. It is crucial in preventing further disruption to the body’s homeostasis.

4. Common Signs of Dehydration

Dehydration can present with several common symptoms, including dry mouth, absence of tears, constipation, concentrated urine, and reduced urine output. These signs indicate that the body is losing more fluids than it is able to take in, which can lead to more severe complications if not managed promptly.

5. Respiratory Compensation and Blood pH Regulation

The respiratory system plays an essential role in regulating blood pH by eliminating carbon dioxide (CO2) at the same rate that cells produce it. Normally, the blood’s partial pressure of CO2 (PCO2) is maintained between 35-45 mm Hg. If respiratory function is impaired, CO2 will accumulate in the blood, potentially altering the acid-base balance. When PCO2 decreases, the chemical reaction involving carbonic anhydrase shifts to the left, leading to a decrease in hydrogen ion concentration and an increase in blood pH, a condition known as respiratory alkalosis.

References

Saladin, K. S. (2020). Anatomy & Physiology: The Unity of Form and Function (9th ed.). McGraw-Hill Higher Education (US).