RE: [MARKETING] [EXTERNAL] electrolyte imbalance - guidelines

I for one would query based on the guidance in the reference below.



Mortality after Hospitalization with Mild, Moderate and Severe Hyponatremia



Hyponatremia is the most common electrolyte abnormality in hospitalized patients.



In a study of more than 98,000 adults hospitalized between 2000 and 2003 (2 teaching hospitals in Boston, Mass), varying degrees of hyponatremia were investigated to determine impact on mortality. The study included a review of mortality during the in-patient stay, and at 1 and 5 years post discharge.



The results of the study revealed that patients with hyponatremia (especially older individuals with co-morbid conditions) had an increased risk of death in hospital, at 1 year and at 5 years as compared to patients with normanatremia. Incidence of increased mortality was demonstrated even in patients with "mild" hyponatremia (130-134 mEq/dl). The relationship between hyponatremia and increased mortality was more pronounced in patients with cardiovascular disease, cancer and patients undergoing orthopedic procedures. Prompt treatment and resolution of hyponatremia during the hospital stay attenuated the increased risk of mortality.



Waikar SS, Mount DB, Curhan GC; Mortality after Hospitalization with Mild, Moderate and Severe Hyponatremia; Am J Med, 2009 Sept; 122(9): 857-865.



Robert



Robert S. Hodges, MSN, BSN, RN, CCDS

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