- Diaphoresis.
- Dialysis.
- Increased insulin.
- Alkalosis.
- Stress (increases epinephrine).
- Starvation.
- Low potassium in diet.
The patient may have the following signs and symptoms when experienc-
ing hypokalemia:- Leg cramps.
- Muscle weakness.
- Vomiting.
- Fatigue.
- Decreased reflexes.
- Polyuria.
- Irregular pulse.
- Bradycardia.
The patient may also exhibit an abnormal EKG that shows:- Depressed ST segment.
- Flattened T wave.
- Presence of U wave.
- Premature ventricular contractions.
The nurse must respond with the following interventions as the patient is a
risk for injury related to muscle weakness and cardiac arrhythmias.- Increase dietary intake of potassium.
- Teach the patient how to prevent hypokalemia by maintaining an adequate
dietary intake of potassium. These include fruits, fruit juices, vegetables,
or potassium supplements. Bananas and dried fruits are higher in potas-
sium than oranges and fruit juices. - Administer potassium chloride supplements (Table 10-1) orally (may take 30
minutes for onset) or IV. Use a central IV line for rapid infusion in critical
conditions. Take with at least a half a glass of fluid (juice or water) because
potassium is extremely irritating to the gastric and intestinal mucosa. - Teach patients the signs and symptoms of hypokalemia and to call the
healthcare provider if any of these are experienced.
(^166) CHAPTER 10 Fluid and Electrolyte Therapy