Red Whale Primary Care Pod Hyperkalaemia- who needs admission and who can be managed in the community?
Jul 11, 2025
Join a lively discussion on managing hyperkalemia in primary care, focusing on when to admit patients versus community care. Learn about the complexities of interpreting potassium levels and the importance of personalized treatment plans. The podcast also dives into cancer care, highlighting unique risks faced by the LGBTQIA+ community and the need for tailored support and screenings. Explore healthcare challenges and the intersection of sexuality, gender, and health, while uncovering insights that promote inclusive care.
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When to Admit for Hyperkalemia
- Admit patients with potassium levels 6.5 mmol/L or more, acute kidney injury, ECG changes, or symptoms of hyperkalemia.
- Manage patients with mild/moderate hyperkalemia safely in the community by repeating potassium and reviewing medications.
Manage Mild/Moderate Hyperkalemia
- Repeat potassium within one day for moderate and within three days for mild hyperkalemia if stable.
- Review and reduce or stop causative medications like ACE inhibitors, ARBs, and MRAs.
Broader Causes of Hyperkalemia
- Drug-induced hyperkalemia comes from many meds not just ACE inhibitors; some include NSAIDs, trimethoprim, and potassium supplements.
- Spurious results and non-drug causes like delayed sample processing or crush injury can raise potassium.