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Potassium
norm range, complications/interventions
Question | Answer |
---|---|
Normal potassium range | 3.5 - 5 mEq/L - is most abundant intracellular electrolyte. |
what is Hypokalemia? | Hypokalemia refers to the condition in which the concentration of potassium in the blood is low |
what causes Hypokalemia | vomiting, diarrhea, excessive persperation, Diabetic Ketoacidosis(polyuria), diuretics |
What are the signs and symptoms of hypokalemia? | elevated blood pressure, cardiac arrythmias, muscle weakness, cramps, consitpation, paralysis, weak reflexes, tetany, respiratory depression |
Treatment of hypokalemia | Treat underlying cause - diarrhea, urination. Also, potassium supplements, Central line IV therapy, NEVER PUSH POTASSIUM!!! |
What is hyperkalemia? | elevated blood level of the electrolyte potassium |
What causes hyperkalemia? | renal failure, medication (ACE inhibitors) acidosis (fluid shifts), diet |
What are the signs and symptoms of hyperkalemia? | malaise, palpitations, muscle weakness |
Treatment of hyperkalemia? | Calcium supplements (protects heart), Insulin will lead to pottasium shift into cells, Bicarbonate (lower PH, leading to decreased potassium and increased ATP to put potassium back into cells). |