A child has a 2-day history of vomiting and diarrhea. He has hypoactive bowel sounds and an irregular pulse. Electrolyte values are sodium, 139 mEq/L; potassium, 3.3 mEq/L; and calcium, 9.5 mg/dL
This child is likely to have which of the following electrolyte imbalances? a. Hyponatremia
b. Hypocalcemia
c. Hyperkalemia
d. Hypokalemia
D
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A The normal serum sodium level is 135 to 145 mEq/L. A level of 139 mEq/L is
within normal limits.
B A serum calcium level less than 8.5 mg/dL is considered hypocalcemia.
C A serum potassium level greater than 5 mEq/L is considered hyperkalemia.
D A serum potassium level less than 3.5 mEq/L is considered hypokalemia.
Clinical manifestations of hypokalemia include muscle weakness, decreased
bowel sounds, cardiac irregularities, hypotension, and fatigue.
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