1. What is a Potassium Replacement Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates the amount of potassium (in mmol) needed to correct hypokalemia in adults.

Purpose: It helps healthcare professionals determine appropriate potassium replacement doses based on current and target serum potassium levels.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( R \) — Replacement dose (mmol)
• \( K_t \) — Target potassium level (mmol/L)
• \( K_c \) — Current potassium level (mmol/L)
• \( V \) — Distribution volume (L, typically 40L for adults)

Explanation: The difference between target and current potassium levels is multiplied by the distribution volume to estimate total body potassium deficit.

3. Importance of Potassium Replacement

Details: Proper potassium replacement is crucial for maintaining normal cellular function, neuromuscular activity, and cardiac rhythm.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter current potassium level, desired target level (default 4.0 mmol/L), and distribution volume (default 40L for adults). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's a typical target potassium level?
A: For most patients, 4.0 mmol/L is a reasonable target, but this may vary based on clinical context.

Q2: Why use 40L for distribution volume?
A: This represents typical total body water in adults, where potassium is distributed.

Q3: How should the replacement dose be administered?
A: Typically given orally or IV (with caution), divided over appropriate time based on severity.

Q4: When would I adjust the distribution volume?
A: May need adjustment for very large/small patients or special conditions like renal failure.

Q5: What are the risks of potassium replacement?
A: Over-correction can cause hyperkalemia, which may lead to dangerous cardiac arrhythmias.