NURS 1556 Clinical Medications Worksheets
Generic Name Trade Name
Potassium Chloride Micro-K
Peak Onset Duration
One to two Unknown Unknown
hours
(Why med ordered)
Ordered: for replacement of K+ related to lasix
usage
Mechanism of action and indications
Treatment/prevention or potassium depletion.
Maintain acid-base balance, isotonicity, and
electrophysiologic balance of the cell. Activator in
many enzymatic reactions; essential in nerve
impulses, contraction in cardiac, skeletal and
smooth muscle; gastric secretion; renal function;
tissue synthesis; and carbohydrate metabolism.
Interactions with other patient drugs,
OTC or herbal medicines (ask patient
specifically)
Use with potassium-sparing diuretics or ACE
inhibitors or angiotensin 2 receptor antagonists
may lead to hyperkalemia.
Nursing Process- Assessment
(Pre-administration assessment)
Assess for signs and symptoms of hypokalemia or
hyperkalemia. Weakness, fatigue, U wave on ECG
every couple weeks, arrhythmias, polyuria,
polydipsia.
Classification Dose Route Time/frequency
Mineral and electrolyte 20 mEq PO Every Day
supplement
For IV meds, compatibility with IV drips and /or solutions
N/A
Nursing Implications (what to focus on)
Contraindications/warnings/interactions
Hyperkalemia, known hypersensitivity, cardiac disease.
Common side effects
Abdominal pain, diarrhea, flatulence, nausea, vomiting, restlessness,
weakness, arrhythmias, GI ulceration, stenotic lesions
Lab value alterations caused by medicine
Monitor serum potassium before and periodically during therapy. Monitor
renal function, serum bicarbonate, and pH.
Normal potassium level = 3.5 to 5 mEq. According to lab values on 3/20/09
Potassium level was within normal limits.
Be sure to teach the patient the following about this
medication
Caution Pt that this drug should be taken with a meal or a full glass of
water. Teach her the purpose of supplement and need to take as directed,
avoid salt substitutes or low-salt milk or food unless approved by health
care professionals, encourage compliance with recommended diet, report
dark, tarry stool, emphasize importance of regular follow-up exams.
Assessment Evaluation
Why would you hold or not give Check after giving
this med?
Serum potassium level greater than 5.5 Cessation of arrhythmias
mEq/L Prevention or correction of
serum potassium depletion.