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 |
Normal Range: 3.5 - 5.0 mEq/L (slightly higher in newborns)
|
Function:
Potassium affects the excitability of muscle, particulary heart
(myocardial) contractility |
|
|
Normal Range: 3.5 - 5.0 mEq/L (slightly higher in newborns)
|
Function:
Potassium affects the excitability of muscle, particulary heart
(myocardial) contractility |
Causes of
low potassium (hypokalemia): fluid gain (dilution), rapid diuresis,
poor potassium intake |
| Causes of high potassium (hyperkalemia): poor diuresis, rapid or excessive intravenous potassium administration, acidosis, red blood cell lysis (rupture) |