Potassium in the Body

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1. Discuss the basic functions of Potassium in the body, please. * Most abundant intracellular cation in the body * Assist in controlling normal cardiac, nerve functioning, skeletal muscle contraction, and the function of both smooth muscles and endocrine tissues * Regulates the synthesis of glycogen and protein * The amount of K+ can influence intracellular osmolarity and volume 2. Please discuss the pathophysiology and etiology of Potassium imbalance. Hypokalemia * When the body has low levels of potassium (<3.5 mEq/L) it can lead to cardiac and respiratory arrest if the problem isn’t corrected. * Muscle and nerve cell conduction abnormalities Etiology Deficient intake, potassium wasting diuretics (HCTZ & Lasix), gastrointestinal losses, diabetes insipidus, loss of aldosterone, heat-induced diaphoresis, and high blood sugar induced diuresis. Hyperkalemia * When potassium levels are high (<5.1 mEq/L) it can cause cells to become more excitable causing them to respond to stimuli of less intensity or even indepent of stimuli leading to abnormal electrical cardiac rhythm. Etiology Increased potassium intake such as from the use of salt substitutes or rapid infusion of K+, decreased secretion, potassium sparing diuretics (aldactone), burns, massive tissue trauma, GI bleed, overdose of replacement therapy, digoxin, insulin deficiency, and hyperuricemia. 3. Please discuss the specific assessment findings of a client with Potassium imbalance. Hypokalemia -Weak thready pulse -ECG changes (ST depression, flattened T wave, U wave, PVS, heat block) -Dec. breath sounds -Dyspnea -Polyuria -decreased deep tendon reflexes -Anxiety -Muscle weakness - Confusion - Depression -Leg cramps -Hypo bowel sounds -N/V -Constipation -Paralytic ileus –Weight loss - Coma Hyperkalemia -Irregular

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