Hyperkalaemia Flashcards
1
Q
Why is hyperkalaemia associated with metabolic acidosis?
A
- H+ and K+ ions compete with each other for exchange with Na+ ions across cell membranes and in the distal tubule
2
Q
What ECG changes are seen in hyperkalaemia?
A
Tall-tented T waves
small P waves
widened QRS
leading to a sinusoidal pattern and asystole
3
Q
Conditions which can cause hyperkalaemia
A
AKI
metabolic acidosis
Addison’s disease
rhabdomyolysis
massive blood transfusion
4
Q
Drugs which cause hyperkalaemia
A
potassium sparing diuretics (spironolactone)
ACE /ARB
ciclosporin
heparin/ LMWH
5
Q
What foods are high in potassium?
A
- salt substitutes
- bananas
- oranges
- kiwi fruit
- avocado
- spinach
- tomatoes
6
Q
What drug class can cause hyperkalaemia in renal failure?
A
beta-blockers
** remember beta-AGONISTS, e.g. Salbutamol, are sometimes used as emergency treatment**
7
Q
Management of hyperkalaemia
A
salbutamol nebs
Calcium gluconate if ECG changes
Insulin/Dextrose
