From the Research
Management of Hypokalemia
The management of a 69-year-old male with hypokalemia involves addressing the underlying cause and replenishing potassium levels.
- The preferred route of potassium replacement is oral, if the patient has a functioning gastrointestinal tract and a serum potassium level greater than 2.5 mEq per L 1, 2.
- The speed and extent of potassium replacement should be dictated by the clinical picture and guided by frequent reassessment of serum potassium concentration 2.
- In cases of severe hypokalemia, intravenous potassium chloride supplementation may be necessary, especially if there are electrocardiogram changes, neurologic symptoms, cardiac ischemia, or digitalis therapy 2.
- Potassium-sparing diuretics may be helpful in cases where renal potassium clearance is abnormally increased 2.
- Dietary counseling is also important, as a well-balanced diet can help prevent hypokalemia 3.
Considerations in Geriatric Patients
In geriatric patients, hypokalemia is a commonly encountered electrolyte disorder, occurring in about 3 to 4% of community-dwelling elders 3.
- Asymptomatic hypokalemia is often an incidental finding, but it is associated with an increased risk of major adverse cardiovascular events if left untreated 3.
- A registered dietitian can provide recommendations for a well-balanced diet, consistent with the patient's dietary texture needs 3.
- Medications such as thiazide diuretics can contribute to hypokalemia, and alternative treatments should be considered if possible 3.