Does Hemodialysis Dialysate Potassium Composition Matter?

Nephrol Nurs J. 2015 Nov-Dec;42(6):577-80; quiz 581.

Abstract

Dyskalemia is known to cause cardiac arrhythmias and cardiac arrest. In persons undergoing hemodialysis, potassium dialysate composition has been identified as a contributingfactor in addition to co-morbidities, medications, dietary potassium intake, and stage of kidney disease. Current evidence recommends a thorough evaluation of all factors affecting potassium balance, and lower potassium concentration should be used cautiously in patients who are likely to develop cardiac arrhythmias. Nephrology nurses play a key role inpatient assessment and edu- cation related to potassium balance.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Arrhythmias, Cardiac / diagnosis
  • Arrhythmias, Cardiac / epidemiology
  • Arrhythmias, Cardiac / etiology*
  • Comorbidity
  • Education, Nursing, Continuing
  • Hemodialysis Solutions / adverse effects*
  • Hemodialysis Solutions / chemistry*
  • Humans
  • Kidney Failure, Chronic / epidemiology
  • Kidney Failure, Chronic / therapy*
  • Nephrology Nursing / methods*
  • Potassium / adverse effects*
  • Potassium / analysis
  • Renal Dialysis / adverse effects*

Substances

  • Hemodialysis Solutions
  • Potassium