Which acid base and electrolyte complications are commonly associated with prolonged vomiting? Note: Credit will be given only if all correct choices and no incorrect choices are selected. Select all that apply

Question

1. Hypokalemia
2. Metabolic alkalosis
3. Metabolic acidosis
4. Hypocalemia
5. Hyponatremia

Answer 1

1,2
Rationale 1: Decreased potassium occurs as a result of loss of hydrochloric acid from the stomach during vomiting. If not treated appropriately, patients can experience imbalances and cardiac arrhythmias.
Rationale 2: Metabolic alkalosis occurs as a result of loss of hydrochloric acid from the stomach during vomiting. If not treated appropriately, patients can experience imbalances and cardiac arrhythmias.
Rationale 3: Acidosis can occur when there is too much hydrochloric acid.
Rationale 4: While decreased calcium can be problematic, it is not associated with vomiting.
Rationale 5: While decreased sodium can be problematic, it is not associated with vomiting.