Patient Case Study: Fluid & Electrolyte Imbalance

This patient case study report will outline the contributing factors related to a fluid and electrolyte imbalance, whilst assessing the medical and nursing management for the patient. Furthermore, an evaluation of the implemented nursing and medical treatment will also be discussed in this report.

Introduction:

• Patient History:

Mr. Richards presented to accident and emergency on the 7th October 2004, primarily due to the progressive deterioration of end stage motor neuron disease that was diagnosed two years ago. Coupled with a medical history of Alzheimer's disease, renal stones, enlarged prostate, hypertension, and an osophageal rupture, Mr. Richards' health has continued …show more content…

Richards ability to concentrate and dilute urine (Edwards, 2001). This decreased filtration rate, coupled with a reduction in bladder capacity and decreased total body fluid associated with the ageing process, places the elderly, like Mr. Richards at risk of developing dehydration due to inadequate water absorption and compounded by an inadequate fluid intake.
Medical Management and Evaluation:

• Rationale and evaluation of medical treatment ordered for fluid imbalance A non-aggressive palliative approach, coupled with maintaining Mr. Richards comfort, is the main emphasis of the medical treatment ordered to correct his fluid deficit. Therefore, the proposed medical goals of treatment aim at correcting the implications of a fluid imbalance whilst the underlying causes contributing to his dehydration remain untreated.

Due a large fluid volume deficit emphasised by Mr. Richards decreased urine output, dry mucous membranes, furrowed tongue and dark concentrated urine; and coupled with his decreased ability to consume water, and metabolism results indicating high urea levels of 10.3 when normal parameters lie between 3.1-8.1, treatment through intravenous rehydration has been ordered to correct his fluid imbalance (Marieb, 2004). Evidence states that this method of fluid delivery provides a fast and effective means to rehydrate a patient, especially in those patients, like