Kayexalate Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What is the therapeutic class of Kayexalate?

Potassium-Removing Resins (correct)

Antibiotics

Antihypertensives

Diuretics

What is the pharmacotherapeutics of Kayexalate?

Potassium-removing resin used in treating hyperkalemia

What is the pharmacokinetics of Kayexalate?

The drug is not absorbed systemically and is excreted through the GI tract.

What is the mechanism of action of Kayexalate?

Releases sodium ions that are replaced with potassium ions. Signup and view all the answers

What are the contraindications for Kayexalate?

Use caution when giving this drug to anyone who cannot tolerate a small increase in sodium intake. Signup and view all the answers

What are the adverse effects of Kayexalate?

Hypokalemia, other electrolyte imbalances, gastric irritation, anorexia, nausea, vomiting, and constipation. Signup and view all the answers

What drug interactions should be noted with Kayexalate?

When administered with non-absorbable cation-donating antacids and laxatives, systemic alkalosis can occur. Signup and view all the answers

What are the core patient variables to monitor when administering Kayexalate?

Monitor the patient's serum potassium level, note the patient's age, assess dietary history, and be aware that sodium polystyrene sulfonate is administered in the hospital. Signup and view all the answers

What are the strategies for maximizing therapeutic effects of Kayexalate?

Clear the GI tract with a cleansing enema before administering the drug by enema and create a suspension of the powdered formula with water or syrup for greater palatability. Signup and view all the answers

How can adverse effects of Kayexalate be minimized?

If the potassium serum level is severely elevated, use other methods to reduce potassium. Signup and view all the answers

What patient/family education should be provided regarding Kayexalate?

Explain the therapeutic and possible adverse effects of the drug, emphasize the importance of repeated blood work to monitor electrolyte concentrations, report signs of hypokalemia, maintain a low sodium diet, avoid high potassium foods, and report constipation. Signup and view all the answers

What ongoing assessment is needed when using Kayexalate?

Monitor serum electrolytes throughout therapy. Signup and view all the answers

What are the nursing diagnoses/outcomes for Kayexalate?

Risk for constipation related to adverse effects of drug therapy and potential complication: hypokalemia. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Kayexalate (Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate) Overview

Therapeutic class: Potassium-Removing Resins designed to manage hyperkalemia.
Administered for treating high potassium levels in the body, a condition known as hyperkalemia.

Pharmacotherapeutics

Effectively lowers serum potassium without causing systemic absorption.
Primarily excreted via the gastrointestinal tract, indicating minimal systemic effect.

Mechanism of Action

Functions by exchanging sodium ions for potassium ions within the gastrointestinal tract, facilitating potassium removal.

Contraindications

Caution required for patients who may not tolerate increased sodium intake due to the medication's composition.

Adverse Effects

Potential side effects include hypokalemia, various electrolyte imbalances, and gastrointestinal issues such as gastric irritation, anorexia, nausea, vomiting, and constipation.

Drug Interactions

Co-administration with non-absorbable cation-donating antacids or laxatives (e.g., magnesium hydroxide, aluminum carbonate) may lead to systemic alkalosis.

Core Patient Variables

Regular monitoring of serum potassium levels is crucial (normal range: 3.5 - 5.2 mEq/L).
Consider the patient's age and dietary habits.
Typically administered in a hospital setting due to monitoring needs.

Maximizing Therapeutic Effects

A cleansing enema should be performed to prepare the GI tract before administration.
Oral formulations should be mixed with water or syrup to improve taste and acceptability.

Minimizing Adverse Effects

In cases of severely elevated potassium, alternative methods should be utilized to manage levels effectively.

Patient/Family Education

Patients should be informed about therapeutic effects and potential adverse reactions.
Importance of regular blood tests to track electrolyte levels should be emphasized.
Signs of hypokalemia (muscle weakness, fatigue) warrant immediate medical attention.
Advised to follow a low sodium diet and avoid high-potassium foods (e.g., melons, bananas, orange juice, potatoes).
Patients should report any constipation experienced during treatment.

Ongoing Assessment

Continuous monitoring of serum electrolytes is essential to ensure safety and effectiveness of therapy.

Nursing Diagnosis/Outcomes

Identify risk for constipation as a potential side effect, implementing preventive measures (e.g., administering sorbitol if needed).
Aim for potassium levels to return to normal, monitoring outcomes closely throughout treatment.

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Description

Test your knowledge on Kayexalate, a potassium-removing resin. This set of flashcards covers key concepts including its therapeutic class, pharmacotherapeutics, and mechanism of action. Perfect for students and healthcare professionals alike!