NCLEX - Hypokalemia Management

Here are key facts for NCLEX from the Hypokalemia Management tutorial, as well as points of interest at the end of this document that are not directly addressed in this tutorial but should help you prepare for the boards. See the tutorial notes for further details and relevant links.

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1. Laboratory definition: K+ < 3.5 mEq/L 2. Severity classification:

• Mild/Moderate: K+ 3.0-3.4 mEq/L
• Severe/Symptomatic: K+ < 3 mEq/L

1. Primary causes requiring nursing assessment:

• Gastrointestinal losses
• Renal losses
• Redistribution into cells
• Inadequate intake

1. Neuromuscular assessment findings: Cramps, weakness, rhabdomyolysis 2. Cardiovascular assessment findings: Premature beats, arrhythmias 3. Critical diagnostic findings: U waves, flattened T waves on ECG

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1. IV administration protocol: 20 to 60 mEq KCl in saline 2. Critical nursing consideration: Administration rate not to exceed 10-20 mEq/hr to prevent peripheral vein irritation 3. Monitoring responsibilities: Close observation with ECG monitoring for arrhythmias 1. Medication administration: K+ supplements – 10-20 mEq, 2-4× daily (maximum 80 mEq/day) 2. Patient education: Increase intake of K+-rich foods 1. Laboratory value targets: Maintain K+ between 3.5-5 mEq/L 2. Safety monitoring: Observe for signs of hyperkalemia and arrhythmias 1. Assessment of underlying causes:

• Evaluate for gastrointestinal losses
• Monitor effects of diuretic therapy
• Consider renal function during replacement therapy

2. Advanced nursing considerations:

• Assessment for concurrent magnesium deficiency
• Administration of potassium-sparing diuretics (e.g., amiloride) in renal losses
• Individualized care plan based on comorbidities and clinical status

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Below is nursing-specific information essential for NCLEX examination beyond what's explicitly contained in the tutorial. 1. Focused assessment components: Vital signs, muscle strength, cardiac rhythm, intake and output 2. Risk factor identification: Medication review, nutritional status, fluid balance 3. Prioritization of care: Recognizing urgent vs. non-urgent manifestations 4. Documentation requirements: Nursing documentation for electrolyte imbalances 1. IV administration techniques: Site assessment, infusion pump programming, compatibility considerations 2. Medication administration: Timing, dilution requirements, patient education 3. Delegation considerations: What can and cannot be delegated to unlicensed personnel 4. Emergency preparedness: Equipment and medications for cardiac emergencies 1. Discharge teaching: Medication instructions, follow-up requirements 2. Dietary guidance: Specific high-potassium foods and meal planning 3. Warning signs: Symptoms requiring immediate medical attention 4. Medication safety: Side effects, drug interactions, administration timing 1. Expected outcomes: Resolution of symptoms, normalization of laboratory values 2. Ongoing monitoring parameters: Frequency of assessment and laboratory testing 3. Complications to monitor: Signs of rebound hyperkalemia or inadequate replacement 4. Quality indicators: Prevention of complications and readmissions