Hypokalemia

Definition:

• Serum <3.5mmol/L

Etiology: 

• Intracellular shifts: Hypothermia, Exogenous insulin/refeeding, beta-agonists
• Potassium loss: renal vs extrarenal (generally GI)

 

Evaluation: 

• Review medication list
• Basic labs: Serum BMP, Mg
• Distinguish renal from GI losses with urine potassium.