title: Overview of fluids and electrolytes.
abstract: In order to maintain a constant internal environment, the body has a unique ability to respond to changes that would alter the normal state of homeostasis. A wide range of regulatory processes maintains the fluid, electrolyte, and acid-base balance crucial for normal cellular function. An understanding of these processes allows the nurse to identify problems and anticipate various treatment modalities in certain disease states.
authors.affiliation: American Association of Critical-Care Nurses Certification Corporation, Newport Beach, California.
authors.forename: B
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Chenevey
mesh_terms: D000136:Acid-Base Equilibrium; D001692:Biological Transport; D001825:Body Fluid Compartments / Q000378:metabolism; D001826:Body Fluids / Q000502:physiology; D006706:Homeostasis; D006801:Humans; D014882:Water-Electrolyte Balance