2225 Disrupted Homeostasis

In this episode of Nursing Student Deep Dive, we tackle one of the most intimidating areas of medical-surgical nursing: disrupted homeostasis. We break down fluids, electrolytes, and acid-base balance in a way that connects the invisible chemistry happening inside the body to the clinical signs nurses actually see at the bedside. Topics include fluid compartments, intake and output, insensible losses, osmosis, diffusion, filtration, hydrostatic and oncotic pressure, serum osmolality, dehydration and fluid overload, and major electrolyte imbalances involving sodium, potassium, and calcium. We also demystify arterial blood gases and acid-base balance, including respiratory and metabolic acidosis and alkalosis, compensation, and how to use ABG results alongside the patient’s assessment to identify the underlying problem. This episode is designed to help nursing students move beyond memorizing lab values and instead understand why those numbers change, what they mean physiologically, and when they signal a potentially life-threatening emergency.