References
The highs and lows of electrolytes part 2: calcium, phosphate and magnesium
Abstract
There are six electrolytes that are important in maintaining homeostasis within the body. They play vital roles in regulating neurological, myocardial, muscular and cellular functions and are involved in fluid and acid–base balance. Recognising and treating electrolyte derangements is an important role for veterinary nurses especially in emergency and critical care patients. This series of two articles will discuss the physiology behind each of the six major electrolytes and discuss to monitor and treat any abnormalities.
An electrolyte is a substance that dissociates into ions in solution and is capable of transporting an electric charge.
Electrolytes can be positively or negatively charged and are balanced within the body. Positively charged ions are cations and negatively charged are anions.
The major electrolytes in the body include:
Electrolytes help regulate fluid balance, nerve and muscle function and maintain blood pH. Concentrations of electrolytes are closely controlled by the action of different hormones and the kidneys. Derangements can affect many body functions including cardiac, skeletal muscle function and the nervous system. The second part of this two part series will look at calcium, phosphate and magnesium.
Calcium is crucial for skeletal bone support and numerous intra- and extracellular functions. It is involved in blood coagulation, excitation of neurons, secretion of hormones, enzyme activity and muscle contraction. Ionised calcium mediates acetylcholine release during neuromuscular transmission and stabilises the nerve cell membrane by decreasing its permeability to sodium. 99% of calcium is in bone, the remaining 1% is located in body fluid (Scalf, 2014).
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