Question

If a hypokalemic patient became that way acutely, what do you suspect?

a) Chronic diuretic use
b) Gastrointestinal losses
c) Acute shift of potassium into cells
d) High dietary potassium intake

Answer 1

In a hypokalemic patient who became that way acutely, the likely cause is gastrointestinal losses such as prolonged vomiting and diarrhea, resulting in excessive loss of digestive fluid including potassium.

Step-by-step explanation:

If a hypokalemic patient became that way acutely, the most likely cause would be b) Gastrointestinal losses. Acute gastrointestinal losses, such as prolonged vomiting and diarrhea, can lead to excessive loss of digestive fluid, including potassium. This can result in a decrease in potassium levels in the blood, leading to hypokalemia.