Electrolytes

Question 1

At what rate can potassium be replaced in the body?

Answer 1

10mmol/l max

Question 2

Which electrolyte accompanies hypoakalaemia?

Answer 2

Magnesium

Treat the magnesium levels or it will be difficult to treat the hypokalaemia

Question 3

What are some ECG signs of hyperkalaemia?

Answer 3

Tall T waves
Flattened P waves

Question 4

What are some ECH signs of hypokalaemia?

Answer 4

Decreased T wave size

Question 5

How is severe hyperkalaemia treated?

Answer 5

Give calcium gluconate/ calcium chloride with dextrose infusion

• The calcium stabilises the heart and the dextrose shifts the potassium intracellularly

Often needs multiple doses

Question 6

What are some causes of hyperkalaemia?

Answer 6

AKI
Drugs like spironolactone
Rhabdomyolysis

Question 7

How does vitamin D link to serum calcium levels?

Answer 7

Vitamin D helps with calcium absorption from the gut

Question 8

What are some causes of hypocalcaemia?

Answer 8

• Low vitamin D
• Hypoparathyroidism
• Hypoparathyroidism
• Renal disease