Hyponatremia is a common electrolyte disorder associated with significant morbidity and mortality. This is especially the case when hyponatremia is associated with neurologic symptoms. Asymptomatic hyponatremia also worsens outcomes, but this condition frequently goes undiagnosed and untreated. This is, in part, because it is often asymptomatic or presents as a complication of a serious medical illness that requires dedicated medical attention. However, it is imperative that clinicians quickly recognize the symptoms of hyponatremia and implement appropriate therapy to prevent prolonged hospitalization and possible dire clinical consequences.

This educational initiative is designed to promote effective and positive changes to clinician knowledge, competence, and confidence, resulting in improved patient care and outcomes.

At the conclusion of this activity, participants should be able to demonstrate the ability to:

• Identify hospitalized patients with hyponatremia that require improvement in serum sodium levels
• Evaluate when and how various therapeutic options should be utilized in the treatment of hyponatremia
• Analyze the pathophysiology of hyponatremia development in the workup and treatment of the disorder
• Recognize the limitations of some diagnostic tests in the setting of renal failure and proceed with the appropriate management of hyponatremia in the setting of renal failure

Supported By

Supported through an educational grant from Otsuka America Pharmaceutical, Inc.