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Hyperkalaemia: Difference between revisions
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In addition to measures to move insulin into cells, treatment to remove potassium from the body is indicated. This can be either dialysis (in the most severe cases), a potassium-losing diuretic like a loop diuretic or thiazide diuretic, or a gastrointestinal cation exchanger. | In addition to measures to move insulin into cells, treatment to remove potassium from the body is indicated. This can be either dialysis (in the most severe cases), a potassium-losing diuretic like a loop diuretic or thiazide diuretic, or a gastrointestinal cation exchanger. | ||
If there are ECG changes, administration of intravenous calcium gluconate is indicated. Calcium gluconate stabilises the cardiac membrane, reducing the risk of arrhythmia. Calcium gluconate does not decrease the potassium level. Patients with ECG changes must have cardiac monitoring. | If there are ECG changes, administration of intravenous calcium gluconate or calcium chloride is indicated. Calcium gluconate stabilises the cardiac membrane, reducing the risk of arrhythmia. Calcium gluconate does not decrease the potassium level. Patients with ECG changes must have cardiac monitoring. | ||
Less severe hyperkalaemia can be managed with potassium-losing diuretic or gastrointestinal cation exchanger alone. | Less severe hyperkalaemia can be managed with potassium-losing diuretic or gastrointestinal cation exchanger alone. | ||