20.1
How Is Water Distributed in Body Compartments?
ody water accounts for approximately 60% of body weight; it is mainly distrib
uted in the extracellular and intracellular spaces ( S and S, respectively).
The S contains nearly 55% of the water, and the
normal adult). The
S 45% (about 1...
Fluid Management:
Questions and Answers 20
Maria Benedetto, Chiara Candela and Felice Eugenio Agrò
20.1 How Is Water Distributed in Body Compartments?
Body water accounts for approximately 60% of body weight; it is mainly distrib-
uted in the extracellular and intracellular spaces (ECS and ICS, respectively).
The ICS contains nearly 55% of the water, and the ECS 45% (about 15 L in a
normal adult). The ECS is further divided into the intravascular space (IVS), the
interstitial space (ISS), and the transcellular space (TCS), containing about 15%,
45%, and 40% of ECS water, respectively. The TCS is a functional compartment
represented by the amount of fluid and electrolytes continually exchanged (in
and out) by cells with the ISS and by the IVS with the ISS.
20.2 What Is the Physiological Role of Electrolytes
Contained in the Plasma?
Sodium is the main cation in the ECS and the main determinant of ECS vol-
ume. It has an important hemodynamic role as it is involved in the renin-
angiotensin system. It is necessary for the regulation of blood and body flu-
ids, for the transmission of nerve impulses, and for cardiac activity.
Potassium is the major cation in the ICS. It is important in allowing car-
diac muscle contraction and conduction and participates in sending nerve
impulses. It also plays a key role in kidney function.
Calcium is involved in exocrine, endocrine, and neuro-endocrine secretions,
the coagulation system, muscle contraction, cell growth, and enzymatic regulation.
C. Candela ()
Postgraduate School of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, Anesthesia, Intensive Care and Pain
Management Department, University School of Medicine Campus Bio-Medico of Rome,
Rome, Italy
e-mail: chiaracandela@yahoo.it
Stuvia customers have reviewed more than 700,000 summaries. This how you know that you are buying the best documents.
Quick and easy check-out
You can quickly pay through credit card or Stuvia-credit for the summaries. There is no membership needed.
Focus on what matters
Your fellow students write the study notes themselves, which is why the documents are always reliable and up-to-date. This ensures you quickly get to the core!
Frequently asked questions
What do I get when I buy this document?
You get a PDF, available immediately after your purchase. The purchased document is accessible anytime, anywhere and indefinitely through your profile.
Satisfaction guarantee: how does it work?
Our satisfaction guarantee ensures that you always find a study document that suits you well. You fill out a form, and our customer service team takes care of the rest.
Who am I buying these notes from?
Stuvia is a marketplace, so you are not buying this document from us, but from seller TIFFACADEMICS. Stuvia facilitates payment to the seller.
Will I be stuck with a subscription?
No, you only buy these notes for $12.99. You're not tied to anything after your purchase.
