Fluid and electrolyte imbalances are commonly noted in medical-surgical patients and it is important for the medical-surgical nurse to be an expert in determining the importance of that imbalance to the patient and to the plan of care. Unfortunately, these changes are often missed or misunderstood, and a review - even for those with experience - is warranted. This is not just a patient care issue, but can become a legal issue as well when subtle changes are missed, or the wrong fluids are given. This presentation will focus on two aspects of this clinical issue: 1) the interpretation of electrolytes and the interventions required and 2) the importance of recognizing fluid imbalances and the type of fluid required to address that imbalance.

_NO ONE WITH THE ABILITY TO CONTROL CONTENT OF THIS SESSION HAS A RELEVANT FINANCIAL RELATIONSHIP TO DISCLOSE WITH AN INELIGIBLE COMPANY._