Hypokalemia Flashcards
Normal range of potassium
3.5-5.0
Function of potassium
Muscle contraction
Cardiac function
Name the organ that regulates potassium
Kidney
Aldosterone stimulates the kidneys to excrete potassium and retain sodium
Who are more risk for potassium imbalances
Taking diuretics
Client who have renal failure
Reason for potassium imbalance is life threatening
Cause dysthymias
What is the effect of hypokalemia in ECG
sT depression
Flattened T wave
prominent U wave
Name the organs involved in potassium losses
Kidney
GI tract
Name the diuretics that causes potassium losses
Loop diuretics
Thiazide diuretics
How the GI play role in potassium losses
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Signs and symptoms of hypokalemia
Weak muscles and less contraction
Muscles cramps
Decreased intestinal motility
Constipation
Hypoactive bowel movements
Abdominal distention
Blood pressure decreased
Cardiac dysrhythimas
Intervention
Place on continuous cardiac monitor
Administered potassium supplement (oral or IV)
Hold potassium supplement if urinary output is less or equal to 30ml/hr
Encouraged intake of potassium rich foods- bananas, orange,raisins , potatoes
Things to remember while giving IV potassium
Never give via IV push
Always dilute IV potassium
Use a programmable infusion pump- too much too quickly can cause cardiac arrest
IV potassium is irritating to veins that can cause tissue necrosis
What is IV infiltration
Medical conditions where fluids or medications administered through an
IV line leak into the surrounding tissues instead of the remaining in the vein
What can you do if IV infiltration occurs
Stop the infusion
Discontinue the venous access device
Notify the HCP
Why you shouldn’t give digoxin to hypokalemia patients
Increase the risk of digoxin toxicity
Digoxin binds to the same site on the sodium- potassium pump as potassium so low potassium level makes it easier for digoxin to bind and have an effect
