Potassium

Question 1

Major function in ICF

Answer 1

Regulating protein & glycogen synthesis

Question 2

2 Major function in ECF

Answer 2

Maintenance of action potentials in muscles, neurons, & other tissues. Assists in controlling cardiac rate/ rhythm.

Question 3

What is the primary control of ECF K+?

Answer 3

Sodium/ Potassium pump by removing 3 sodium ions from the cell for every 2 potassium ions that return to the cell

Question 4

What toxicity is increased with hypokalemia?

Answer 4

Digoxin levels

Question 5

What are causes of hypokalemia?

Answer 5

Renal disease, GI loss (Suctioning, vomiting, diarrhea), loop & thiazide diuretics, increase Aldosterone, Fistula/wound drainage, Malnutrition, alcoholism

Question 6

What are S/S of Hypokalemia?

Answer 6

Variable pulse rate (weak, thready), EKG changes, Shallow respirations, muscle weakness, polyuria, lethargy, fatigue, N/V, decrease bowel motility, paresthesias (tingling, burning), leg cramp. SKELETAL MUSCLES ARE FIRST!!!!!

Question 7

What are some interventions for hypokalemia?

Answer 7

K+ replacement (PO,IV), monitor V/S, EKG & Serum Electrolytes, Monitor Digoxin level, Provide K+ rich diet (fruits & veggies, dries peas & beans, whole grains, milk, meats)

Question 8

What is the normal serum level of K+?

Answer 8

3.5-5.0 mEq/L

Question 9

K+ is regulated by?

Answer 9

Aldosterone

Question 10

The most dangerous of ALL Electrolyte Imbalances (V-fib, cardiac arrest)

Answer 10

Hyperkalemia

Question 11

What is Hyperkalemia?

Answer 11

Excess of K+ in the ECF.

Question 12

What is Hypokalemia?

Answer 12

When extracellular K+ level falls, K+ moves from the cell, creating an intracellular K+ deficiency.

Question 13

What are causes of hyperkalemia?

Answer 13

renal failure, decrease aldosterone (Addison’s disease), Excessive K+ intake, heparin, Angio-tensin-coverting-enzymes (ACE inhibitors), K+ sparing diuretics (spironolactone).

Question 14

What are S/S of hyperkalemia?

Answer 14

Irregular, slow pulse (Arrhythmias), low b/p, EKG changes, Ventricular Fibrillation, irritability, anxiety, confusion, muscle cramps EARLY= Muscle Twitching, LATE= Flaccid Paralysis, abdominal cramping.

Question 15

What are interventions for hyperkalemia?

Answer 15

Monitor EKG, Administer I.V fluids/ (10-25 units regular insulin in 500ml D10W over 3-4hrs, sodium bicarbonate (45-50mEq/L I.V push), Calcium Gluconate I.V prevents arrhythmias check b/p pulse, loop diuretics, Kayexalate SPS PO enema, stop all K+ supplements and foods.