Electrolytes Flashcards
Mg - Magnesium (normal blood value)
1.6-2.6 mg/dL
Na - Sodium (normal blood value)
135-145 mEq/L
K - Potassium (normal blood value)
3.5-5.0 mEq/L
Ca - Calcium (normal blood value)
8.6-10 mEq/L
Phosphorus (normal blood value)
2.7-4.5 mEq/L
Hypokalemia causes what changes to ECG
- ST Depression
- Shallow, flat, or inverted T Wave
- Prominent U Wave
Foods High in Potassium Include
- Avocado
- Banana
- Cantaloupe
- Carrots
- Fish
- Mushrooms
- Oranges
- Potatoes
- Pork
- Beef
- Veal
- Raisins
- Spinach
- Strawberries
- Tomatoes
Signs of Hypocalcemia
- decreased heart rate
- hypotension
- diminished peripheral pulses
- hyperactive deep tendon reflexes
- increased gastric motility
- hyperactive bowel sounds
- Twitching
- Muscle spasm
- Numbness
- Hyperactive Reflexes
- Positive Trousseaus & Chvostek signs
- Anxiety & irritability
What type of patients are at high risk for fluid loss?
- elderly
- patients with an ileostomy or colostomy
Hyperkalemia and burns
Patients with wounds or substantial burns are at greater risk of hyperkalemia due to cellular fluid shifting during trauma. Also can be caused by sepsis or respiratory acidosis.
Administration of potassium
Potassium is administered by infusion solution. It is never given IM, subcut or bolus.
Should be diluted to 1 mEq/10ml.
Administration rate is 5-10 mEq per hour, NEVER to exceed 20 mEq per hour.
Renal function should assessed prior to administration & fluid balance should be monitored during administration.
Potassium infusion can cause phlebitis.
Hypocalcemia & Changes to the ECG
- Prolonged ST segment
2. Prolonged QT interval
Hypercalcemia & Changes to the ECG
- Shortened ST segment
2. Widened T wave
Hypokalemia & Changes to the ECG
- ST depression
- Shallow, flat or inverted T Wave
- Prominent U wave
Hypomagnesemia & Changes to the ECG
- Tall T Waves
2. Depressed ST segment