Hypokalemia

1. Definition of Hypokalemia.

1. Hypokalemia is a low level of potassium in the body below 3.5 millequivalents per liter.

2. Causes

1. Inadequate diet.

2. Medications (lasix, thiazides, steroids, sodium penicillin, carbenicillin, etc.).

3. Gastrointestinal loss (vomiting, diarrhea, draining fistula, etc.).

3. Signs and Symptoms

1. Muscle weakness.

2. Apathy.

3. Abdominal distention.

4. Anorexia.

5. Vomiting.

6. Fatigue.

7. Muscle cramps.

8. Dysrhythmias.

4. Complications

1. Kidney damage.

2. Cardiac arrest.

3. Respiratory arrest.

5. Treatment

1. Foods high in potassium:

1. Fruits - apricots, bananas, strawberries, grapefruit, melon, nectarines, oranges, peaches, papaya, cantaloupe, avocados, raisins, prunes.

2. Vegetables - asparagus, beans, beets, broccoli, carrots, mushrooms, potatoes, squash, peas, brussels sprouts, tomatoes.

3. Meats, poultry, and fish.

4. Milk.

5. Nuts, dates, figs.

6. Blackstrap molasses.

2. Potassium supplements as ordered.