POTASSIUM-HYPERKALEMIA MANAGEMENT (CARDIAC STABILIZATION)

SUMMARY

1. If ECG shows changes of hyperkalaemia: stabilise the myocardial electrical system.

2. Institute if there is a wide QRS or absence of P waves. IV calcium can enhance the effect of digoxin; therefore do not give to patients on this therapy.

3. Ca Gluconate 10ml 10% IV. Slow push (1-2 minutes). In 100ml fluid (N.saline or D5%) over 5 mins.

4. Cardiac monitoring.

5. Repeat above again if ongoing ECG abnormalities (5 minutes).

Reference(s)

Wilkinson, I. (2017). Oxford handbook of clinical medicine. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
Hannaman, R. A., Bullock, L., Hatchell, C. A., & Yoffe, M. (2016). Internal medicine review core curriculum, 2017-2018. CO Springs, CO: MedStudy.
Therapeutic Guidelines. Melbourne: Therapeutic Guidelines Limited. https://www.tg.org.au [Accessed 2021].