Question

Mr. K.W. is 72-year-olds of age and has had vomiting and diarrhea for 2 days. He takes digoxin 0.25 mg and hydrochlorothiazide 50 mg daily. His serum potassium level is 3.2 mEq/L He complains of being dizzy, and his blood pressure is slightly lower than usual. The nurse assesses his physiologic status and notes that his muscles are weak and flabby, his abdomen is distended, and peristalsis is diminished.

What contributing factors caused Mr. K.W.'s potassium imbalance?

Answer 1

Mr. K.W.'s hypokalemia is caused by a combination of vomiting and diarrhea leading to an absolute loss of potassium, as well as increased renal excretion of potassium due to his use of hydrochlorothiazide.

Step-by-step explanation:

The contributing factors that caused Mr. K.W.'s potassium imbalance include his ongoing vomiting and diarrhea, medication use, and possibly other underlying conditions. Persistent vomiting and diarrhea can lead to an absolute loss of potassium, which is reflected in his hypokalemia with a serum potassium level of 3.2 mEq/L. Moreover, the use of diuretics such as hydrochlorothiazide can exacerbate potassium loss because these medications increase renal potassium excretion. His symptoms, including muscle weakness, dizziness, and a distended abdomen, are typical signs of hypokalemia. Electrolyte imbalances like hypokalemia can significantly affect cardiovascular and muscular function and should be corrected promptly.