Re: K-rider? --Going out on a limb here

[Guest guest]

Ok bear with me as I'm on a mission on this one . Remember I'm a student.

Here is my thinking on this......

1. Hypokalemia : An abnormally low concentration of potassium in the blood.

2. The symbol for the element potassium is " K " .

3. The treatment for this condition is IV potassium replacement administered

slowly with a volumetric device if the concentration exceeds 40 mEg/liter.

4. Is it possible you're hearing " two K liters p.o. potassium chloride 20

mEq for her hypokalemia " ?

The info below my sig line came from RX List from a search on hypokalemia.

Robyn/NM?Student

NURSING-IMP: Potassium and other electrolyte levels are monitored

frequently during replacement therapy to avoid overcorrection leading to

hyperkalemia. Fluid balance is monitored. A physician must be notified if

the patient's urine output is less than 600 ml/day, because 80-90% of

potassium is excreted through the kidneys. Cardiac rhythm is monitored, and

arrhythmias are reported immediately. Additional care is taken if the

patient takes a cardiac glycoside because hypokalemia enhances its action.

The patient is assessed for indications of digitalis toxicity. Other signs

to watch for include decreased bowel sounds, abdominal distention, and

constipation.

Prescribed IV potassium replacement is administered slowly with a

volumetric device if the concentration exceeds 40 mEg/liter. The rate should

not exceed 200-250 mEg/24 hours, and the drug should never be given as a

bolus because it may precipitate cardiac arrest. If the patient is

prescribed a liquid oral potassium supplement, he or she is advised to

dilute it in a full glass of water or fruit juice and to sip it slowly to

prevent gastric irritation. Safety measures are implemented for the patient

experiencing muscle weakness due to postural hypotension. The importance of

taking potassium supplements as prescribed is emphasized, particularly if

the patient also is prescribed a diuretic or digitalis preparation. The

patient is taught signs of potassium imbalance to report, including weakness

and pulse irregularities.

K-rider?

Hi y'all:

This is ringing a BIG bell, but I can't zero in on it in this OLD brain.

Treatment included continuous blood glucose monitoring, as well as

electrolyte balancing. The patient received two s/l [k-riders or

k-righters] and p.o. potassium chloride 20 mEq for her hypokalemia, and was

later stabilized.

Thanks in advance for any help.

Jayni