Potassium Chloride

Question 1

KCl Preparations

Answer 1

2 mEq/mL for cardioplegia purposes, other concentrations are too diluted

Question 2

KCl Indications

Answer 2

K deficiency
Cardioplegia

Question 3

KCl Contraindications

Answer 3

Hyperkalemia

Question 4

KCl MOA

Answer 4

Provides depolarized arrest in diastolic state by increasing (make more positive) the resting membrane potential

Question 5

KCl Adverse Effects

Answer 5

Hyperkalemia
Arrhythmia
Heart block
Cardiac arrest or EKG changes

Question 6

KCl Drug Class

Answer 6

Electrolyte

Question 7

KCl on CPB

Answer 7

Should be monitored via blood gas
ZBUFF K above 6.0 mEq/L before xclamp removal

Question 8

KCl Drug Interactions

Answer 8

Diuretics and insulin will effect K excretion, monitor with blood gas and adjust cardioplegia

Question 9

KCl Dosing

Answer 9

Varies based on protocol and type of cardioplegia
Induction doses 25-35 mEq/L common
Should be adjusted based on patient serum K

Question 10

Patient Serum K Range

Answer 10

Normal: 3.5-5.0 mEq/L
On CPB: 4.0-5.5 mEq/L