Download – Body Fluid Compartments, Sodium and Potassium

Disorders of sodium (Na + ) and potassium (K + ) are amongst the most common metabolic abnormalities encountered by anaesthetists. They can be caused by a wide variety of pathological processes, and if untreated, can very quickly become life-threatening. A good understanding of the basic physiology is essential to complement the principles of assessment and treatment. In this article the underlying physiology is described with frequent reference to relevant clinical situations.

Daniel Freshwater-Turner*, Richard Green, Bruce McCormick
*Correspondence Email: danfreshwt@yahoo.co.uk