Chronic renal failure presenting an electrolyte imbalance

Case history

Jean Da Silva is 70. He is retired from the construction industry. He was admitted to your unit yesterday for CRF with an electrolyte imbalance. He has had dialysis three times a week for five years now. He has an arteriovenous fistula in the left forearm.

He needs a treatment this afternoon.

He has a history of type 2 diabetes, fairly well controlled, and high blood pressure, more or less controlled.

You are beginning your day shift right now and Mr. Da Silva has rung to see his nurse.