IBCC Episode 11 Hyperkalemia

In this episode of the IBTC Podcast, Josh and Adam Thomas delve into the critical aspects of hyperkalemia, a common and dangerous electrolyte imbalance. They discuss the diagnosis, emphasizing the importance of EKGs and lab results, and explore the various causes, including pseudohyperkalemia, iatrogenic factors, and renal issues. The hosts cover risk stratification, differentiating between mild to moderate and severe cases, and provide detailed treatment approaches. They advocate for managing mild to moderate hyperkalemia with diuresis and avoiding outdated treatments like kayexalate, while severe cases require immediate interventions such as intravenous calcium, insulin, and beta-agonists. The discussion also includes a stepped approach to caliuresis, featuring volume resuscitation and a diuretic cocktail, while highlighting common pitfalls in hyperkalemia management, such as the misuse of bicarbonate and normal saline.