Potassium

Question 1

4 things that enhance K+ excretion

Answer 1

1. aldosterone
2. increased tubular flow
3. unreabsorbed urinary anions (neg charged urine traps K+)
4. distal tubular Na+ reabsorption

Question 2

things that shift potassium INTO cells

Answer 2

insulin
beta-agonists (albuterol, epinepherine)
aldosterone
alkalemia

Question 3

things that shift potassium OUT of the cells

Answer 3

acidemia
beta-blockade
hyperosmolarity

Question 4

steps to tx hyperkalemia

Answer 4

1. EKG
2. stabilize myocardium (w/ Ca++)
3. shift K+ into cells (insulin, albuterol)
4. remove K+ from body (kayexalate, dialysis, improve renal function

Question 5

causes of hypokalemia

Answer 5

poor intake
diuretic use (loop, thiazide) 
hyperaldosteronism
anion excess
polyuria
hypomagnesemia
GI losses --> increased aldosterone