ICU SAQs · Electrolytes
Sodium, water and potassium — compartments, regulation and distribution
A CICM First-Part basic-science SAQ on fluid compartments, the regulation of sodium and water by thirst and vasopressin, and the transcellular distribution of potassium that dissociates the serum level from the total-body store.
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Prompt
Outline the regulation of body sodium and water, and explain why the serum potassium can be normal despite a large total-body potassium deficit. Describe the determinants of serum sodium and of serum potassium.
Question
Outline the regulation of body sodium and water, and explain why the serum potassium can be normal despite a large total-body potassium deficit. Describe the determinants of serum sodium and of serum potassium.
References3ShowHide
- [1]Adrogué HJ, Madias NE. Hyponatremia. New England Journal of Medicine, 2000.PMID 10824078
- [2]Clase CM, Carrero JJ, Ellison DH, et al. Potassium homeostasis and management of dyskalemia in kidney diseases: conclusions from a Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) Controversies Conference. Kidney International, 2020.PMID 31706619
- [3]Bersten AD, Soni N (eds) Oh's Intensive Care Manual. 8th edition, Elsevier, 2018.