Moderate to severe hyperkalemia
ICD-10 E87.5 · ICD-11 5C76

Treatment of Hyperkalemia with Serum Potassium 6.0–6.5 mmol/L — Asymptomatic, No ECG Changes

This protocol applies when serum potassium is 6.0–6.5 mmol/L — the moderate range — and the patient is asymptomatic, with no muscular weakness and no ECG changes present.

Initial management centres on dietary adjustment combined with a structured review of the patient's current medications — particular drug classes known to influence potassium handling are identified and addressed as a priority.

The complete stepwise regimen, including the full medication review criteria, is available in the protocol.

  1. HYPERkalaemia (Mild: 5.2–5.9 mmol/L, Moderate: 6.0–6.5 mmol/L, Severe: more than 6.5 mmol/L)
  2. Place on a low potassium diet.
  3. Review medicines; withhold any potassium retaining drugs (ACE inhibitors, angiotensin receptor antagonists, potassium sparing diuretics, trimethoprim, β-blockers, NSAIDs, digoxin) or potassium containing products.
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