Which answer best describes the relationship between K+ movement and acid-base balance?

a. Excess extracellular H+ ions are exchanged for intracellular K+.
b. Extracellular acidosis results in serum hypokalemia.
c. Low-K+ diets are required following na-sogastric suctioning.
d. When the extracellular pH rises, K+ moves out of the cells.


ANS: A
Serum K+ concentration is determined primarily by the pH of extracellular fluid and the size of the intracellular K+ pool. In extracellular acidosis, excess H+ ions are exchanged for intracellular K+. Movement of K+ from intracellular to extracellular spaces may produce dangerous levels of hyperkalemia.

Health Professions

You might also like to view...

Lower airway anesthesia for fiberoptic bronchoscopy can be achieved via which of the following routes of administration?

1. Bronchoscopic instillation 2. Intravenous administration 3. Nebulization (aerosol delivery) a. 1 and 2 only b. 1 and 3 only c. 2 and 3 only d. 1, 2, and 3

Health Professions

List the six steps for avoiding costly mistakes

What will be an ideal response?

Health Professions

Cocaine's mechanism of action is primarily to prevent the reuptake of:

A. epinephrine. B. norepinephrine. C. dopamine. D. serotonin.

Health Professions

Which health professional uses therapies such as electricity, heat, cold, ultrasound, massage, and exercise to restore function and relieve pain after injury? 

A. Occupational therapist B. Physician's assistant C. Physical therapist D. Medical technician E. Vocational nurse

Health Professions