For a patient with hypokalemia, what acid-base disturbance is commonly observed?

For a patient with hypokalemia, what acid-base disturbance is commonly observed?

• A. Metabolic acidosis
• B. Metabolic alkalosis
• C. Respiratory acidosis
• D. Respiratory alkalosis

Answer: (B)

When potassium is low, the kidneys tend to excrete more hydrogen ions in an effort to preserve potassium, and often there is accompanying volume depletion that boosts aldosterone. This combination promotes loss of H+ and retention of bicarbonate, shifting the balance toward a higher pH. The result is metabolic alkalosis, which is commonly seen with hypokalemia. While the body may try to compensate via ventilation, the primary disturbance associated with low potassium is metabolic alkalosis.

When potassium is low, the kidneys tend to excrete more hydrogen ions in an effort to preserve potassium, and often there is accompanying volume depletion that boosts aldosterone. This combination promotes loss of H+ and retention of bicarbonate, shifting the balance toward a higher pH. The result is metabolic alkalosis, which is commonly seen with hypokalemia. While the body may try to compensate via ventilation, the primary disturbance associated with low potassium is metabolic alkalosis.