Potassium Chloride (KCl) CHP 25 Flashcards

Study Notes

Potassium Chloride (KCl) Overview

Therapeutic class: drug for hypokalemia; treats low potassium levels in the body.
Pharmacologic class: classified as an electrolyte and potassium supplement.

Actions and Uses

Preferred for preventing or treating hypokalemia; also used for mild alkalosis.
Available in various forms: tablets, powders, and flavored liquids.
Should be diluted with water to prevent gastrointestinal irritation; risk of peptic ulcers.
IV administration must be slow; bolus injections can cause cardiac arrest.
Commonly prescribed with loop or thiazide diuretics to prevent potassium depletion.

Administration Alerts

Administer oral forms while patient is upright to avoid esophagitis.
Do not crush or chew tablets; dilute liquid forms before oral or nasogastric administration.
IV potassium should not exceed 10 mEq/h; care needed to prevent extravasation.
Classified as pregnancy category A.

Adverse Effects

Common side effects include nausea and vomiting due to GI irritation.
Can be taken with meals or antacids to reduce gastric distress.
IV use may result in phlebitis and venous irritation; use larger vessels to minimize risks.
Serious risks include hyperkalemia, especially if taken with potassium-sparing diuretics.
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) can exacerbate hyperkalemia risk, as kidneys excrete over 90% of potassium.

Contraindications

Contraindicated in cases of hyperkalemia, CKD, systemic acidosis, severe dehydration, extensive tissue breakdown, adrenal insufficiency, and use of potassium-sparing diuretics.

Drug-Drug Interactions

Interactions increase hyperkalemia risk when taken with potassium-sparing diuretics and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors.

Lab Tests

Increases serum potassium levels; monitor levels to prevent complications.

Treatment of Overdose

Withhold potassium-sparing diuretics and potassium-rich foods/medications.
Administer IV dextrose solution with regular insulin to lower potassium levels.
Sodium bicarbonate may be given to correct acidosis.
Use polystyrene sulfonate or patiromer to enhance potassium elimination.

Description

Test your knowledge on Potassium Chloride with these flashcards. Each card covers important aspects like therapeutic class, pharmacologic class, and actions and uses of KCl. Perfect for students studying pharmacology or related medical fields.