Hyperkalemia

Question 1

Causes of hyperkalemia

Answer 1

CARED
Cellular movement of potassium from intracellular to extra cellular- burns, tissue damage, acidosis
Adrenal insufficiency with Addison’s diseases
Renal failure
Excess potassium intake
Drugs (potassium sparing diuretics like spironolactone, triamterene, ACE inhibitors, NSAIDS like ibuprofen and naproxen)

Question 2

Effect of hyperkalemia in cardiovascular system

Answer 2

Bradycardia-affect heart electrical activity and reduce heart rate
Hypotension
Ectopic heartbeat-skipped or extra heartbeat
Complete heart block
Asystole
Ventricular fibrillation

Question 3

ECG presentation of hyperkalemia

Answer 3

Peaked T waves
Widened QRS

Question 4

Effect of hyperkalemia on neuromuscular system

Answer 4

Muscles weakness
Tingling and burning sensation
Respiratory muscles not affected until serum potassium level reaches lethal levels

Question 5

Effect of hyperkalemia on GI system

Answer 5

Increased motility with diarrhea
Hyperactive bowel movements
Bowel movements are frequent and watery

Question 6

Intervention

Answer 6

Place on continuous cardiac monitor
Patient safety for fall prevention

Question 7

What are the medication that help in excrete of potassium

Answer 7

Sodium polystyrene sulfonate (Kayexalate)- bind potassium in intestine to promote excretion
Loop diuretics- furosemide: to promote potassium excretion
IV push insulin with dextrose: insulin shifts potassium back into cells and dextrose prevent hypoglycemia

Question 8

What to do if clients has EKG changes

Answer 8

Give IV calcium to stabilize cardiac membranes and prevent cardiac arrest