Implications of Fluid Imbalances

Why does decreased serum albumin result in edema?

Albumin, is a protein found in the ECF (bloodstream). Albumin allows for oncotic pressure (which is a pressure that makes up most of the osmotic pressure) to occur. Albumin attracts water and retains it in the bloodstream. So, when there is low albumin, also known as hypoalbumin, water will not be able to be retained within the ECF (bloodstream). In this case there is a high hydrostatic pressure and a low oncotic pressure (because of the low albumin) causing water to build up within the ICF. The accumulation of water within the cells will cause Edema.

Why does urine output increase with BNP release?

BNP will increase urine out put because it is a type of natrutic that causes excretion of urine in order to decrease pressure within the ventricles of the heart.

Why is a hypertonic IV solution used to reduce brain swelling?

Because a hypertonic iv will increase the solute concentration in the bloodstream, causing the water within the cell to follow the high solute concentration outside of the cell, which will end up with cell shrinkage, reducing the brain swelling.

Why does sodium retention increase the likelihood of edema?

Because water follows sodium. If there is high sodium, there is most likely going to be high amounts of water as well.

Why does inhibition of ADH result in increase serum osmolarity?

Inhibition of ADH results in an increase of serum osmolarity because water is unable to be reabsorbed, decreasing blood volume and increasing the shift of solute concentration within the cells out into the bloodstream (ECF) creating a higher serum osmolarity.

Why are renin levels increased during fluid deficit?

Renin levels are increased during fluid deficiency because the Kidney's will sense the low blood volume triggering the Kidneys to secrete Renin into the bloodstream. The secretion of Renin will cause cycles of the, "Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosteron-System" (RAAS), which will produce: peripheral atrial vasoconstriction, absorption of sodium and water, excretion of potassium -Renin will continue to be secreted from the Kidney's until blood volume is brought back to normal levels.

Why is an isotonic IV used to replace fluid lost to hemorrhage?

The isotonic IV will be used, in order to maintain normal solute concentration and fluid, since there are no alterations.