Which specific electrolyte level is most important for the nurse to monitor in a client who has any type of acid-base imbalance?

Question

A. Sodium
B. Calcium
C. Potassium
D. Magnesium

Answer 1

C
Any type of acid-base imbalance usually alters the blood potassium level. Both potassium and hydrogen ions carry or express an overall positive charge (are cations). Body fluids maintain electroneutrality by keeping the number of positive ions matched with an equal number of nega-tive ions (anions). In acidosis, hydrogen ions enter cells in exchange for potassium ions. Thus, a relative hyperkalemia accompanies acidosis. In alkalosis, hydrogen ions leave the cells and enter the blood in exchange for potassium ions. Thus, a relative hypokalemia usually accompanies al-kalosis as extracellular potassium ions move into cells in exchange for intracellular hydrogen ions entering the extracellular fluid. Normal potassium level of the blood has a narrow range (3.5 to 5.0 mEq\L). When blood potassium levels are too high, lethal cardiac dysrhythmias may occur. When blood potassium levels are too low, skeletal muscle weakness and respiratory failure may occur.