Electrolytes

Question 1

Treatment of Hypermagnesemia

Answer 1

Stop Mg infusion. Administer NS and furosemide to promote diuresis and excretion of Mg (in the absence of renal failure). Can also give Calcium

Question 2

Torsades de Pointes

Answer 2

Can be caused by prolongation of QTC and hypomagnesemia. Can be treated with bolus of Mg 1-2 grams over 30-60 seconds or defibrillation

Question 3

Pancreas Transplant

Answer 3

Develop hypoglycemia due to insulin release following transplant and taking exogenous insulin prior to transplant

Question 4

Hypocalcemia

Answer 4

Causes difficulty breathing following thyroidectomy. Prolonged QTC interval. Seen in alkalosis b/c calcium bound to albumin decreasing calcium levels.

Question 5

Hyperkalemia in Muscular Dystrophy patients

Answer 5

Not associated with MH. The result of muscle breakdown or rhabdomyolysis.

Question 6

TPN

Answer 6

Complications: Risk of hypoglycemia (abrupt discontinuance of TPN), hyperglycemia with initiation (may need Insulin gtt), low phosphate (in the setting of refeeding syndrome). Increased PT due to vitamin K deficiency. Can cause liver dysfunction (elevated AST, ALT and increased Albumin)