Sodium

Get a free nursing lab values cheat sheet at NURSING.com/63labs   What is the Lab Name for Sodium (Na+) Lab Values? Sodium   What is the Lab Abbreviation for Sodium? Na+   What is Sodium in terms of Nursing Labs? Sodium (Na+) is the most abundant cation in extracellular fluid. Sodium aids in osmotic pressure, renal retention and excretion of water, acid-base balance, regulation of other cations and anions in the body, plays a role in blood pressure regulation, and stimulation of neuromuscular reactions. Sodium and water have a direct relationship; Water follows salt.   What is the Normal Range for Sodium? 135-145 mEq/L   What are the Indications for Sodium? Monitor: Extracellular osmolality Electrolyte balance   What would cause Increased Levels of Sodium? Cushing Syndrome Hyperaldosteronism Dehydration Burn injury Azotemia (elevated nitrogen) Lactic acidosis (LA) Fever/excessive sweating Excessive IV fluids containing sodium Diabetes Insipidus Osmotic diuresis   What would cause Decreased Levels of Sodium? Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuretic Hormone (SIADH) Cystic Fibrosis Diuretic use Metabolic acidosis Addison Disease Nephrotic Syndrome Vomiting Diarrhea Ascites Excessive Antidiuretic Hormone(ADH) Liver failure