HBS109 Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology AT3: Case Study Assignment Trimester 2, 2025 | Deakin

HBS109 Your Task:

You are required to write a 1,200-word combined RESULT / DISCUSSION section that interprets the results of the fluid management study. This section should explain the observed changes, why the observed changes occurred, connect the data to homeostatic principles, and demonstrate critical thinking about physiological mechanisms.

• Interpret trends in the physiological measures.
• Compare the impact of each fluid management strategy on homeostatic stability.
• Relate the findings to principles of homeostasis (e.g., osmoregulation, thermoregulation, cardiovascular compensation).
• Discuss the hormonal and neural aspects of each intervention and trying to maintain homeostasis.

Instructions to students:

• Use an appropriate referencing system (see CloudDeakin for more details)
• Submit either a Microsoft Word (.docx) or PDF document (no Pages documents)
• Other formats such as .pages, .dotx, or URL links will receive 0 marks.
• DO NOT exceed the maximum 1,200-word limit.

The Effects of Fluid Management Strategies on Homeostatic Regulation in Older Adults Over an 8-Hour Period

Introduction

Effective fluid management is critical in maintaining homeostasis. Fluid intake influences a range of homeostatic systems, including osmo regulation, the regulation, and cardiovascular stability. Understanding how different fluid intake strategies impact key physiological variables can guide safer patient care in both clinical and environmental stress settings.

Dehydration and inadequate fluid replacement can lead to impaired thermoregulation, reduced renal perfusion, increased cardiovascular strain, and disturbances in electrolyte balance.
Conversely, appropriate fluid interventions may support stability even in stressful conditions. This study aimed to evaluate how varying fluid intake protocols affect vital signs, urine output, serum sodium levels, and perceived thirst over an 8-hour period in adult patients.

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate the short-term physiological effects of four fluid management strategies (control [no fluid intake], intravenous [IV] fluids, oral hydration, and oral hydration in a hot environment) on homeostatic indicators in adults.

Methods

Participants and Grouping

Forty healthy adults aged 40–50 were enrolled and randomly allocated into four equal groups (n
= 10 per group), each following a distinct fluid protocol over an 8-hour observation period. The study took place in a controlled setting, with vitals and blood tests performed by qualified staff at baseline (0 hr), midpoint (4 hr), and endpoint (8 hr). Measurements were body temperature (°C), urine output (mL) and serum sodium concentration (mmol/L).

Intervention Groups

1.Control Group: No oral or IV fluid intake for 8 hours.
2.IV Fluids Group: Received 2,000 mL of 0.9% sodium chloride via intravenous infusion over 8 hours.
3.Oral Fluids Group: Consumed approximately 2,000 mL of tap water evenly distributed over 8 hours.
4.Hot Environment Group: Consumed 2,000 mL of water while exposed to an ambient temperature of 40°C for 8 hours.

Data Table: Summary of Mean Patient Responses

Discussion s Results Interpretation (1,200 words)