Pediatric Electrolyte Emergencies: Recognition and Management in the Emergency Department (Pharmacology CME)

Points & Pearls Excerpt

• Electrolyte emergencies may present with a wide variety of findings. Obtain a thorough history and physical examination to investigate the etiology of electrolyte derangement.
• See Table 2 for a summary of the most common and most life-threatening electrolyte derangements.
• Consider total-body volume and water balance, as these are integral components to determine the rate at which certain electrolytes are corrected.
• See Table 5 for a list of recommended laboratory tests to obtain when differentiating electrolyte emergencies.