Potassium Flashcards
1
Q
How does hypokalaemia present?
A
weakness dec reflexes + tone cramps light-headed palpitations
2
Q
How does hyperkalaemia present?
A
weakness fatigue palpitations chest pain paralysis death
3
Q
What changes are seen on ECG of hypokalaemia?
A
small/inverted T waves
long PR
4
Q
What changes are seen on ECG of hyperkalaemia?
A
tall tented T waves
wide QRS
VF
5
Q
What can cause low potassium?
A
thiazide + loop diuretics
diarrhoea, vomiting
insulin
conn’s syndrome
6
Q
What drugs can cause hyperkalaemia?
A
ACEi
ARBs
Spironolactone
NSAIDs
7
Q
What conditions can cause hyperkalaemia?
A
renal disease addisons rhabdomyolysis burns metabolic acidosis
8
Q
A K conc over what is an emergency?
A
6.5 or if ECG changes
9
Q
How should a K of 6.5 be managed?
A
calcium gluconate to stabilise heart insulin/glucose infusion salbutamol calcium resonium dialysis
10
Q
How does insulin work in hyperkalaemia?
A
drives potassium into cells
11
Q
How does calcium resonium work in hyperkalaemia?
A
remove potassium from body
