Question

Replacing potassium via an IV will prevent hypokalemia from occurring. Symptoms of hypokalemia (less than 3.5 mEq/L) include muscle weakness, paresthesias, and dysrhythmias, and it increases sensitivity to digitalis. IV potassium can cause irritation and phlebitis so the nurse will assess the IV site every 2 hours/per agency policy. What are the symptoms of hypokalemia?

1) Muscle weakness
2) Paresthesias
3) Dysrhythmias
4) All of the above

Answer 1

The symptoms of hypokalemia include muscle weakness, paresthesias, and dysrhythmias. IV potassium can cause irritation and phlebitis, so the nurse should assess the IV site every 2 hours.

Step-by-step explanation:

The symptoms of hypokalemia (less than 3.5 mEq/L) include:

1. Muscle weakness
2. Paresthesias
3. Dysrhythmias

Hypokalemia can also increase sensitivity to digitalis. IV potassium, although used to replace potassium, can cause irritation and phlebitis. Therefore, the nurse should assess the IV site every 2 hours, as per agency policy, to prevent complications.