Hypokalaemia Flashcards
1
Q
What is hypokalaemia?
A
Low serum potassium
2
Q
What is normal serum potassium?
A
3.5-5 mmol/L
3
Q
What are the symptoms of hypokalaemia?
A
Muscle weakness
Cramps
Arrhythmias
Tetany
4
Q
What are the ECG changes in hypokalaemia?
A
Inverted T waves
U waves
Prolonged PR
ST depression
5
Q
What are the causes?
A
Diuretics V+D Alkalosis Cushing's syndrome Conn's syndrome
6
Q
What is mild hypokalaemia?
A
> 2.5 mmol/L
No symptoms
7
Q
How do you manage mild hypokalaemia?
A
Oral K+ supplements (sando K)
8
Q
What is severe hypokalaemia?
A
<2.5mmol/L
Symptomatic
9
Q
How do you manage severe hypokalaemia?
A
IV potassium
No more than 20mmol/hr
