What is the recommended IV rate (in mEq/hr) for potassium chloride to correct hypokalemia?

What is the recommended IV rate (in mEq/hr) for potassium chloride to correct hypokalemia?

• A. 15-20 mEq/hr
• B. 5-10 mEq/hr
• C. 25-30 mEq/hr
• D. 1-2 mEq/hr

Answer: (B)

Potassium replacement must be given slowly because potassium directly affects cardiac conduction and can trigger dangerous arrhythmias if infused too rapidly. In adults, the safe and effective IV rate for correcting hypokalemia is typically 5–10 mEq per hour. Infusing faster (such as 15–20 mEq/hr or more) raises the risk of hyperkalemia and cardiac issues, while a rate as slow as 1–2 mEq/hr would be too slow to correct the deficit promptly. Therefore, 5–10 mEq/hr is the best choice.

Potassium replacement must be given slowly because potassium directly affects cardiac conduction and can trigger dangerous arrhythmias if infused too rapidly. In adults, the safe and effective IV rate for correcting hypokalemia is typically 5–10 mEq per hour. Infusing faster (such as 15–20 mEq/hr or more) raises the risk of hyperkalemia and cardiac issues, while a rate as slow as 1–2 mEq/hr would be too slow to correct the deficit promptly. Therefore, 5–10 mEq/hr is the best choice.