1. The client/caregiver can list the causes of low potassium levels (hypokalemia) and the need for increased potassium diets.
   1. Inadequate diet—protein/calorie malnutrition
   2. Diuretics and other medications
   3. Vomiting, diarrhea, draining fistula, prolonged suctioning, and so forth
   4. Cellular trauma such as burns
   5. Large doses of corticosteroids
   6. Prolonged administration of intravenous fluids without electrolytes
   7. Laxative abuse
2. The client/caregiver can list signs and symptoms of low potassium.
   1. Muscle weakness and leg cramps
   2. Fatigue, weakness, and loss of appetite
   3. Nausea and vomiting
   4. Severe losses, which can lead to respiratory arrest
   5. Irregular heart rhythm (dysrhythmias) and cardiac arrest
3. The client/caregiver can list foods high in potassium.
   1. Vegetables—potatoes, tomatoes and tomato products, green leafy vegetables, spinach, carrots, and corn
   2. Fruits—bananas, citrus fruits, melon, raisins, prunes, and cantaloupe
   3. Meats—veal, beef, pork, turkey, and chicken
   4. Whole grains
   5. Milk, yogurt, and ice cream
   6. Others—black beans, lentils, coffee, peanut butter, nuts, and molasses

Resources

My Pyramid—United States Department of Agriculture
www.mypyramid.gov

References

Lutz, C., & Przytulski, K. (2001). Nutrition and diet therapy. Philadelphia: F. A. Davis Company.
Lutz, C., & Przytulski, K. (2004). Nutri notes: Nutrition &diet therapy pocket guide. Philadelphia: F. A. Davis Company.
Nutrition made incredibly easy. (2003). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.
Perry, A., & Potter, P. (2006). Clinical nursing skills & technique. St. Louis: Mosby Inc.
Taylor, C., Lillis, C., & LeMone, P. (2005). Fundamentals of nursing . Philadelphia: Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins.
Timby, B. K., & Smith, N. C. (2003). Introductory medical-surgical nursing (8th ed.). Philadelphia: J. B. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.