DRUG STUDY Kalium durule

Indications
Prevention and correction of potassium deficiency; when associated with alkalosis, use potassium chloride; when associated with acidosis, use potassium acetate, bicarbonate, citrate, or gluconate

Adverse effects

Dermatologic: Rash GI: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, GI obstruction, GI bleeding, GI ulceration or perforation Hematologic: Hyperkalemiaincreased serum K+, ECG changes (peaking of T waves, loss of P waves, depression of ST segment, prolongation of QTc interval) Local: Tissue sloughing, local necrosis, local phlebitis, and venospasm with injection

Nursing considerations Arrange for serial serum potassium levels before and during therapy.

Administer liquid form to any patient with delayed GI emptying. Administer oral drug after meals or with food and a full glass of water to decrease GI upset. Caution patient not to chew or crush tablets; have patient swallow tablet whole. Mix or dissolve oral liquids, soluble powders, and effervescent tablets completely in 38 oz of cold water, juice, or other suitable beverage, and have patient drink it slowly. Arrange for further dilution or dose reduction if GI effects are severe. Agitate prepared IV solution to prevent layering of potassium; do not add potassium to an IV bottle in the hanging position. Monitor IV injection sites regularly for necrosis, tissue sloughing, phlebitis. Monitor cardiac rhythm carefully during IV administration. Caution patient that expended wax matrix capsules will be found in the stool. Caution patient not to use salt substitutes.