What is Hypokalaemia?

Hypokalaemia commonly develops in hospital settings. While it is generally mild, it can cause serious complications if not addressed.

What is Hypokalaemia?

Hypokalaemia is a common electrolyte imbalance that presents in about 20% of hospitalised patients, characterised by lower than normal levels of potassium in the serum blood (Kardalas et al. 2018).

Hypokalaemia is reversible and generally asymptomatic unless the patient’s potassium levels are extremely low (Rogers 20216).

What is the Role of Potassium in the Body?

Potassium contributes to the functioning of nerve and muscle cells, particularly the muscle cells in the heart. Potassium is regulated by the kidneys to maintain homeostasis within a tight range, with excess expelled through urine, sweat and gastrointestinal losses (Rogers 2016; Castro & Sharma 2020).