NSG 170 Module 1: Polystyrene Sulfonate Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What is the drug Polystyrene Sulfonate/Kayexalate used for?

To treat high levels of potassium in the blood.

What is the mechanism of action of Polystyrene Sulfonate/Kayexalate?

Exchanges sodium for potassium ions by binding itself to potassium in your digestive tract.

How does the drug Polystyrene Sulfonate/Kayexalate work differently than other medicines?

It passes into your intestines without being absorbed into your blood.

What are some contraindications for the drug Polystyrene Sulfonate/Kayexalate?

Hypersensitivity to the drug/class, hypokalemia, GI obstruction, caution with hypernatremia, and several other conditions. Signup and view all the answers

What are some common reactions of Sulfonate/Kayexalate?

Gastric irritation, anorexia, nausea, vomiting, constipation, hypokalemia, hypocalcemia, sodium retention, diarrhea, fecal impaction. Signup and view all the answers

What are the serious reactions of Polystyrene Sulfonate/Kayexalate?

Hypokalemia, severe metabolic alkalosis, seizures, intestinal obstruction, intestinal necrosis, GI bleeding, ischemic colitis, GI perforation. Signup and view all the answers

Sodium polystyrene sulfonate should be administered ______ hours separate from other oral drugs.

3 Signup and view all the answers

If gastroparesis, separate administration from other oral drugs by ______ hours should be used with Sulfonate/Kayexalate.

6 Signup and view all the answers

Sodium polystyrene sulfonate may ____ absorption of concomitant oral drugs.

decrease Signup and view all the answers

Aluminum hydroxide should not be used while taking the drug Polystyrene Sulfonate/Kayexalate.

True Signup and view all the answers

Why are antacids contraindicated to be taken with Polystyrene Sulfonate/Kayexalate?

Antacids can decrease its potassium binding efficacy. Signup and view all the answers

Polystyrene Sulfonate/Kayexalate may increase the risk of _______ due to it interferes with cation exchange and bicarbonate metabolism.

alkalosis Signup and view all the answers

As the nurse, what will the teaching be for a patient that has been prescribed Polystyrene Sulfonate/Kayexalate?

Teach the signs and symptoms of hypokalemia and instruct not to use this medication if having low potassium or bowel obstruction. Signup and view all the answers

What evaluation should you, as the nurse, undertake when caring for a patient on Polystyrene Sulfonate/Kayexalate?

Monitor potassium and other electrolyte levels frequently within 24 hours and check ECG. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Polystyrene Sulfonate/Kayexalate Overview

Used to treat hyperkalemia (high potassium levels in the blood).
Mechanism involves exchanging sodium for potassium ions, thus preventing potassium absorption in the digestive tract.

Unique Characteristics

Unabsorbable in the bloodstream, passing through the intestines.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to the drug or drug class.
Do not use if the patient has hypokalemia (risk of exacerbation).
Caution required in hypernatremia, GI obstruction, reduced GI motility, and constipation.
Pediatric use should be approached with caution, especially in cases of GI disease or surgical history.
Severe CHF, HTN, hyperkalemia, renal impairment, aspiration risk, and impaired gag reflex require careful monitoring.

Common Reactions

Possible side effects include gastric irritation, nausea, vomiting, constipation, and diarrhea.
Risk of hypokalemia, hypocalcemia, hypomagnesemia, and fecal impaction due to sodium retention from potassium displacement.

Serious Reactions

Severe hypokalemia, metabolic alkalosis, seizures, intestinal obstruction, necrosis, GI bleeding, ischemic colitis, and perforation.

Administration Guidelines

Administer sodium polystyrene sulfonate three hours apart from other oral medications.
For patients with gastroparesis, spacing of at least six hours from other oral drugs is recommended.

Drug Interactions

Potential to decrease absorption of concomitant oral medications.
Antacids may reduce potassium binding efficacy of the drug, hence contraindicated.
Use of aluminum hydroxide while taking this medication is discouraged.

Risk Awareness

May increase risk of alkalosis due to interference with cation exchange and bicarbonate metabolism.

Patient Teaching

Educate about symptoms of hypokalemia.
Contraindicated for patients with low potassium levels or bowel obstruction.
Advise against oral administration for newborns.
Other medications should not be taken within 3 hours before or after administration, or 6 hours if digestion is slow.

Patient Evaluation

Monitor for hyperactive bowel sounds, indicating potassium excretion, as a positive sign of efficacy.
Frequent monitoring of potassium and other electrolyte levels within the first 24 hours.
Utilize ECG for monitoring cardiac effects associated with electrolyte imbalances.

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Description

This quiz covers essential concepts related to Polystyrene Sulfonate, also known as Kayexalate. Flashcards include its uses, mechanisms, and effects on potassium levels in the blood. Perfect for nursing students looking to reinforce their understanding of this important drug.