Key Concepts

The study of acid-base balance and electrolyte regulation are often difficult concepts for the nurse to understand. This chapter provided information in a simple to understand format. The NCLEX includes questions on this topic under the categories of physiologic integrity, safe effective care, and pharmacology. The nurse should use the key terms, diagnostic, and pharmacological agents to answer these questions.

Key Terms

• Acidosis

• Active transport

• Alkalosis

• Anions

• Cations

• Diffusion

• Electrolytes

• Filtration

• Osmosis

• pH