Potassium Chloride:
Trade names: KCL for IV preparation
Pregnancy: (Category A)
Class:Electrolyte, mineral.

Action:
Uses:
  • Patients receiving high doses of potent diuretics.
  • Patients having secondary hyperaldosteronism.
  • When there is excessive loss of potassium in feces.
  • When potassium intake is not adequate (especially in elderly).
Dose:
by slow intravenous infusion, depending on the deficit or the daily maintenance requirements " usually 1-2 mEq/kg/day "
Contraindications:
  • Severe renal failure.
  • If serum potassium level is over 5 mmol/liter.
Side effects:
  • Hyperkalemia
  • Phlebitis at injection site.
  • Heart toxicity if infused rapidly.
  • With oral tablet: Dyspepsia, nausea and vomiting, esophageal or bowel ulceration.
Nursing considerations:
  • Mix solution well.
  • Administer solution slowly (500 ML of solution over 2-3 hours)
  • Monitor serum potassium level.
  • Assess insertion site for signs of phlebitis.
  • Give oral preparation on full stomach