Water

Definition

Water is a vital nutrient essential for numerous bodily functions, including digestion, absorption, and temperature regulation. It makes up about 60% of the human body and is crucial for maintaining overall health.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Water is essential for the digestion and absorption of nutrients in the gastrointestinal tract.
2. Dehydration can impair cognitive function and negatively affect neurological wellness.
3. Adequate hydration supports kidney function, helping to eliminate waste products from the body.
4. Electrolyte balance, which is critical for nerve function and muscle contractions, depends on proper hydration.
5. Nurses play a key role in assessing patients' hydration status and promoting adequate fluid intake to maintain gut health.

Review Questions

• What role does water play in the digestion process?
• How can dehydration impact neurological wellness?
• Why is it important for nurses to monitor patients' hydration levels?

Related terms

Hydration:

Maintaining an adequate level of bodily fluids to support physiological processes.

Electrolytes:

Minerals that dissolve in water and are essential for nerve function, muscle contractions, and maintaining fluid balance.

Kidney Function: The kidneys filter waste products from the blood and regulate fluid balance through urine production.