Question

select potassium electrolyte and discuss the importance of it, the normal values and what are the clinical manifestations of abnormal values and corresponding nursing actions.

Answer 1

ANSWER.

* POTTASIUM

     * Importance of pottasium.

            * Pottasium is a important electrolyte for regulation of electrical

              activity of heart and other muscles of the body.

            * It helps to maintain bone mineral density.

            * Pottasium required for the regulation of blood pressure.

            * It is useful for maintainance of fluid electrolyte balance.

            * It is an essential electrolyte for appropriate nerve conduction.

* Normal value of pottasium ; 3.5 - 5 mEq/L.

* Abnormally low value of pottasium leads to Hypokalemia.

* Clinical manifestations of Hypokalemia.

                * Muscle cramping.

                * Fatigue.

                * Palpitations.

                * Low blood pressure.

                * Numbness.

                * Confusion.

                * Constipation.

                * Nausea.

* Nursing management of hypokalemia.

              * Prepare a diet plan for the patient which include pottasium rich foods

                like potatoes,bananas,peas,dates,oranges etc.

              * Administer oral pottasium supplements as per physicians order.

              * Administer IV pottasium as per physicians order.

* Abnormally elevated value of pottasium leads to Hyperkalemia.

      * Clinical manifestations of Hyperkalemia.

                     * Cardiac arrythmias.

                     * Muscle weakness.

                     * Fatigue.

                     * Shortness of breath.

                     * Tingling sensations.

                     * Muscle aches.

* Nursing management of Hyperkalemia.

          * Administration insulin along glucose to enhance intracellular shift

            pottasium as per physicans order.

          * Administration IV calcium to reduce excess pottasium level in the body.

          * Restrict the intake of foods which contain high level of pottasium.

          * If elevated pottasium level affect the kidneys prepare the patient for hemodialysis

            to correct the pottasium imbalance.