Hypokalemia

• Potassium plays an important role in nerve conduction, muscle function, acid-base

balance and osmotic pressure.
• Potassium levels are obtained through venous blood extraction.
• It is a metabolic disorder wherein the level of potassium in the blood is lower than
normal (< 3.5 mEq/L).
• It is associated with shifting of K+ into cells, K+ loss from GI and biliary tracts,
renal K+ excretion and reduced K+ intake.
• It is a result of one of the following:
o Diarrhea, sweating, vomiting
o Starvation, malabsorption
o Bartter’s syndrome
o Draining wounds
o Cystic fibrosis
o Severe burns
o Primary aldosteronism
o Chronic alcoholism
o Osmotic hyperglycemia
o Respiratory alkalosis
o Renal tubular acidosis
o Diuretics, antibiotics and mineralocorticoid administration
o Barium chloride poisoning

Symptoms:

• Arryrthmias, especially for persons with cardiovascular disease

• Breakdown of muscle fibers
• Constipation
• Fatigue
• Muscle weakness or spasms, paralysis

Treatment:

• Correct underlying disorder associated with hypokalemia.

• Give potassium tablets.
• Have a diet rich in potassium such as bananas, apples, oranges, milk and
tomatoes.

Nursing Considerations:

1. Record fluid intake and output.

2. Check blood volume and venous pressure.
3. Identify ECG changes such as depressed T waves, peaking P waves.
4. Observe for dehydration. Accurately record state of hydration.
5. Observe for neuromuscular changes such as fatigue and muscular weakness.