Hypokalemia in acute medical patients: risk factors and prognosis
Jensen HK, Brabrand M, Vinholt PJ, Hallas J, Lassen AT
Published in Am J Med, Vol. 128 (1), pp. 60-7.e1
Methodology
Prospective cohort of 11,988 first-time admissions to an acute medical department in Odense, linking admission potassium to registry data; hazard ratios for death at 0-7 and 8-30 days.
Key Findings
Hypokalemia (below 3.4 mmol/L) occurred in 16.8% of admissions. Adjusted hazard ratio for 7-day mortality was 1.34 (95% CI 0.98-1.85); with potassium below 2.9 mmol/L it was 2.17 (1.34-3.49).
Conclusions
Hypokalemia is common in acutely admitted patients, and levels below 2.9 mmol/L are associated with higher short-term mortality.
Limitations
Observational; one hospital; potassium measured once at admission.
Related Health Concerns
Study Details
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