Hypokalemia

K+ levels highest in

ICF

normal serum [K+]

3.5 - 4.8 mMol/L

insulin and aldosterone fx on K+

insulin increases levels intracellularly

aldosterone decreased via excretion

*hyperkalemia txt*

what’s more emergent to txt - hypo or hyperkalemia - and why?

hyper - serum levels increase exponentially when total body amt imbalances

hypokalemia severity level based off serum concen

mild: 3.1 - 3.5

moderate: 2.5 - 3

severe: <2.5

causes

D/V

laxative/enema abuse

excessive diuresis

Mg deficiency

side fx

constipation

muscle cramping & weakness (esp lower body)

arrhythmias (U-waves)

glucose intolerance (diabetes-like)

txt based off levels

3 - 3.5 = dietary K+

2.5 - 3 = PO supplement

2 - 2.5 = PO supplementation, maybe IV

<2 = IV supp immediately

IV K+ adverse fx

very irritating in IV —> not preferred unless necessary

IV K+ interxn

DO NOT combine with dextrose bc decreased insulin response —> opt for normal saline

B-2 agonist fx on K+

decreases serum [K+]

10 mmol of K+ increases serum [K+] by…

0.1 mmol/L