Disorders of Potassium: Physiology Mnemonics Flashcards
What does the mnemonic ‘K-PUMP’ represent in potassium physiology?
Keeps intracellular K⁺ high, Pumps 3 Na⁺ out and 2 K⁺ in, Upholds resting membrane potential, Maintains cell volume, pH balance
This mnemonic helps remember the functions of Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase.
What is the ‘60-25-10’ Rule in renal K⁺ handling?
60-80% reabsorbed in PCT, 25% in TALH, 10% secreted in distal nephron
This rule summarizes the distribution of potassium reabsorption and secretion in the kidneys.
What does the mnemonic ‘LOW K’ stand for regarding hypokalemia causes?
Loss (renal/GI), Oral intake poor, Whipped into cells, Kidney wasting
This mnemonic identifies the major causes of hypokalemia.
What are the triggers for transcellular shifts of potassium represented by ‘K-BAN’?
K⁺ shift (insulin, β₂-agonists), B12 therapy, Alkalosis, Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase stimulants
This mnemonic helps remember factors that can cause potassium to shift into cells.
What ECG changes are associated with hypokalemia, summarized by ‘QUiT’?
Q waves, U waves, T wave flattening
These changes are characteristic of hypokalemia on an ECG.
What does ‘BIG-C’ represent in Bartter syndrome?
Big urine Ca²⁺, Infant onset, Genetic (NKCC2/ROMK), Cl⁻ wasted
This mnemonic highlights key features of Bartter syndrome.
What are the characteristics of Gitelman syndrome summarized by ‘G-SMALL’?
Good Ca²⁺ retention, Subtle onset (teens/adults), Mg²⁺ low, Aldosterone ↑ (mild), Low BP, Lifelong supplements
This mnemonic outlines important aspects of Gitelman syndrome.
What causes hypertensive hypokalemia as indicated by ‘PLACE’?
Primary aldosteronism, Liddle syndrome, Apparent mineralocorticoid excess, Congenital adrenal hyperplasia, Endocrine (Cushing’s)
This mnemonic helps remember conditions leading to hypertensive hypokalemia.
What does the mnemonic ‘K-SLOW’ represent in IV K⁺ replacement?
K⁺ ≤10 mEq/hr, Serial ECG monitoring, Labs every 2-4 hrs, Oral preferred if stable, Watch for rebound hyperkalemia
This mnemonic provides guidelines for safe potassium replacement therapy.
What does ‘SPAM’ stand for in potassium-sparing drugs?
Spironolactone, Potassium-sparing diuretics, Amiloride, MR antagonists (eplerenone)
This mnemonic lists common potassium-sparing medications.
What is the case-based mnemonic for HypoPP?
Ca²⁺ channel mutation, Na⁺ channel mutation, Move K⁺ into cells → paralysis
This mnemonic summarizes the pathophysiology of HypoPP.
What does the mnemonic ‘SWEET Poison’ refer to in Licorice Toxicity?
Suppresses 11β-HSD2, Water retention, Endogenous cortisol acts as mineralocorticoid, Elevated BP, Treat with amiloride
This mnemonic outlines the effects and treatment of licorice toxicity.
What does the ‘98-2 Rule’ describe in potassium distribution?
98% intracellular, 2% extracellular
This rule provides a quick reference for potassium distribution in the body.
What does ‘ENaC-R’ describe in renal K⁺ secretion?
ENaC activity + ROMK = K⁺ secretion
This mnemonic helps remember the mechanism of potassium secretion in the kidneys.
What ECG changes are indicated by the mnemonic ‘QUiT’?
Q waves, U waves, T wave changes
This mnemonic is relevant for recognizing hypokalemia on ECG.
