Patient has K+ <3.5 mEq/L (critical if <2.5 mEq/L)
Caused by:
1. "Obligatory Ion" - moves out w/ fluid
2. Insufficient/Decreased Intake (diet, surgery)
3. Excessive losses (diarrhea, diuretics, laxatives)
4. Transcellular Shift
excessive insulin/epinephrine (diabetics who get too much insulin)
metabolic alkalosis (LOW H+, so K+ enters cells so H+ can come out and regain electroneutrality)
Manifestations: due to LESS excitability of the cell membrane (Sluggish cells and action potential)
1. Nausea/Vomiting, abdominal distention, LOW or NO bowel sounds, Anorexia (DECREASED SMOOTH MUSCLE CONTRACTION)
2. Muscle weakness, fatigue, cramps (DECREASED SKELETAL MUSCLE)
3. Irregular Pulse, Postural Hypotension (LOW BP when standing UPRIGHT)
4. DECREASED deposit of glucose and glycogen
5. Inability to concentrate Urine -> DFV; chronic LOW K+ -> renal cell damage