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As Mr. K.B. continues to vomit and is still unable to eat or drink any significant amounts, loss of the duodenal contents, which include intestinal, pancreatic, and biliary secretions, occurs. No digestion and absorption of any nutrients occurs. Losses at this stage include water, sodium ions, potassium ions, and bicarbonate ions. Also, intake of glucose and other nutrients is minimal. Mr. K.B. shows elevated serum sodium levels. 7. Explain why serum sodium levels appear to be high in this case. 8. Explain how high serum sodium levels might affect the intracellular fluid. 9. Using your knowledge of normal physiology, explain how continued fluid loss is likely to affect: a. blood volume b. cell function c. kidney function 10. Given Mr. K.B.’s history, why might potassium imbalance have more serious effects on him?