Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance

Electrolyte Balance

Anatomy & Physiology

26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance

Electrolyte Balance

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4:26 minutes

Problem 17

Textbook Question

Explain how Na⁺ balance, ECF volume, and blood pressure are jointly regulated.

Verified step by step guidance

Understand that sodium (Na⁺) is a key ion in regulating extracellular fluid (ECF) volume and blood pressure because it influences water retention through osmosis. Sodium balance is tightly controlled by the kidneys and hormonal systems.

Learn about the role of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS). When blood pressure or ECF volume decreases, the kidneys release renin, which leads to the production of angiotensin II. Angiotensin II stimulates aldosterone secretion from the adrenal glands, promoting sodium reabsorption in the kidneys.

Recognize the role of antidiuretic hormone (ADH). ADH is released by the posterior pituitary in response to increased plasma osmolarity or decreased blood pressure. It increases water reabsorption in the kidneys, indirectly affecting sodium concentration and ECF volume.

Understand the role of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP). When blood pressure or ECF volume is elevated, the heart releases ANP, which inhibits sodium reabsorption in the kidneys, promoting sodium excretion and reducing ECF volume and blood pressure.

Integrate the concepts: Sodium balance, ECF volume, and blood pressure are regulated through a dynamic interplay of RAAS, ADH, and ANP. These systems work together to maintain homeostasis by adjusting sodium reabsorption, water retention, and vascular resistance.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Sodium Balance (Na⁺ Balance)

Sodium balance refers to the regulation of sodium ions (Na⁺) in the body, which is crucial for maintaining osmotic pressure and fluid balance. The kidneys play a key role in this process by filtering blood and reabsorbing sodium as needed. An imbalance can lead to conditions such as hypertension or edema, highlighting the importance of sodium in overall fluid homeostasis.

Extracellular Fluid (ECF) Volume

Extracellular fluid volume encompasses all body fluids outside of cells, including interstitial fluid and plasma. It is vital for transporting nutrients, waste, and signaling molecules. The regulation of ECF volume is closely linked to sodium balance, as sodium retention leads to increased ECF volume, which can affect blood pressure and overall cardiovascular health.

Blood Pressure Regulation

Blood pressure regulation involves maintaining the force of blood against the walls of blood vessels, which is influenced by cardiac output and vascular resistance. Sodium levels and ECF volume directly impact blood pressure; increased sodium leads to higher ECF volume, which can elevate blood pressure. Hormonal systems, such as the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, also play a critical role in this regulation.

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Textbook Question

Potassium, magnesium, and phosphate ions are the predominant electrolytes in:

a. Plasma

b. Interstitial fluid

c. Intracellular fluid

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Textbook Question

Sodium balance is regulated primarily by control of amount(s):

a. Ingested

b. Excreted in urine

c. Lost in perspiration

d. Lost in feces

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Textbook Question

Two main substances regulated by the influence of aldosterone on the kidney tubules are:

a. Ammonium ions

b. Bicarbonate

c. Calcium

d. Chloride

e. Hydrogen ions

f. Magnesium

g. Phosphate

h. Potassium

i. Sodium

j. Water

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Textbook Question

Explain why and how total body sodium content, ECF volume, and blood pressure are jointly regulated.

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Textbook Question

Mrs. Bush, a 70-year-old woman, is admitted to the hospital. Her history states that she has been suffering from diarrhea for three weeks. On admission, she complains of severe fatigue and muscle weakness. A blood chemistry study yields the following information: Na⁺ 142 mEq/L; K⁺ 1.5 mEq/L; Cl⁻ 92 mEq/L; Pco₂ 32 mm Hg.

Which electrolytes are within normal limits? Which are so abnormal that the patient has a medical emergency?

Which of the following represents the greatest danger to Mrs. Bush?

a. A fall due to her muscular weakness

b. Edema

c. Cardiac arrhythmia and cardiac arrest.

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Textbook Question

Which of the following is false with respect to sodium ions in human physiology?

a. Sodium ions are the most abundant extracellular cation.

b. Sodium ions are an important osmotic particle in the ECF.

c. The entry of sodium ions into a cell causes depolarization.