Explain how a loss of sodium ions contributes to dehydration. Be specific in your answer.

Complete the following questions and case studies using your text and additional acceptable resources (.edu, .org, or .gov sites are allowed, as well as journals, other textbooks and information from the resources pages provided in this course). Make sure you provide citations and a list of references used for all concepts you are defining, explaining, or summarizing.

The questions presented in this homework assignment are aimed at addressing your retention of the material as well as the application and comprehension of the concepts, and may reflect the material seen on the exams and concept check quizzes.

If you choose to construct your response in a Word document, copy and paste your response into the text field, or simply type your response in the submission text field. If you type your submission into the text field, please click Save Draft frequently to ensure your work is not lost. All direct quotations and other sources used in your responses must be credited using APA Style®. When you are finished, submit to the instructor on or before 11:55 pm ET Sunday of this week.

Application of Concepts: Case Studies

Case Study A:

Mr. K.B. is age 81 and has had gastritis with severe vomiting for 3 days. He has a history of heart problems and is presently feeling dizzy and lethargic. His eyes appear sunken, his mouth is dry, he walks unsteadily, and he complains of muscle aching, particularly in the abdomen. He is thirsty but is unable to retain food or fluid. A neighbor has brought Mr. K.B. to the hospital, where examination shows that his blood pressure is low, and his pulse and respirations are rapid. Laboratory tests demonstrate elevated hematocrit, hypernatremia, decreased serum bicarbonate, serum pH 7.35, and urine of high specific gravity (highly concentrated).

For clarity, this case study is discussed in three parts, the early stage, middle stage, and advanced stage of the imbalances. Further information about the specific problems involved is given in each part and is followed by a series of questions.

Part A: Day 1

Initially, Mr. K.B. lost water, sodium in the mucus content, and hydrogen and chloride ions in the hydrochloric acid portion of the gastric secretions, resulting in “hypochloremic alkalosis.”

Explain how a loss of sodium ions contributes to dehydration. Be specific in your answer.
Describe the early signs of dehydration that would be seen in Mr. K.B.
Describe the compensations for the losses of fluid and electrolytes that should be occurring in Mr. K.B.
Explain why Mr. K.B. may not be able to compensate for losses as well as a younger adult.