Pathophysiology
This electrolyte imbalance is causing E.G.’s muscle weakness and dizziness.
What is HypOkalemia
Vomiting and diarrhea contribute to hypokalemia due to this type of loss.
What is potassium loss (GI Loss)?
A major concern when a patient is on digoxin and has hypokalemia.
What is Digoxin toxicity?
A GI symptom seen with hypOkalemia.
What is constipation?
This test is used to detect dysrhythmias in hypokalemia.
What is an ECG?
This potassium level indicates hypokalemia in E.G.
What is K = 3.0
This medication increases potassium loss in urine.
What is furosemide?
Hypokalemia increases sensitivity to this medication.
What is digoxin?
These abnormal heart rhythms can occur with low potassium.
What are cardiac dysrhythmias?
The ECG change commonly seen in hypokalemia.
What is a flattened T wave (or U wave)?
Hypokalemia affects this system leading to weakness.
What is neuromuscular function?
Skipping this supplement can worsen hypokalemia.
What is potassium chloride?
A life-threatening effect of digoxin toxicity.
What are dysrhythmias?
Tingling or numbness sensation associated with hypokalemia
What is paresthesia?
This lab value must be monitored closely in this patient.
What is potassium level?
Low potassium disrupts this cellular process needed for muscle contraction.
What is action potential/electrical conduction?
Overuse of these (“water pills”) can lead to electrolyte imbalance.
What are diuretic?
This should be monitored closely when giving digoxin.
What is potassium level?
This respiratory change can occur in severe hypokalemia.
What are shallow respirations?
A priority nursing intervention for hypokalemia.
What is potassium replacemen?
This happens to muscle cells when potassium is low, making them less excitable.
What is hypERpolarization?
This condition can worsen potassium loss due to fluid shifts.
What is excessive fluid loss/dehydratio?
This is the antidote used in severe digoxin toxicity.
What is digoxin immune Fab?
Weak pulses and fatigue are signs of this underlying issue.
What is decrease muscle functio?
Teaching to prevent hypokalemia includes eating foods high in this.
What is potassium?