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