To study clinical features of Electrolyte abnormalities in Intensive Care Unit patients at Base Hospital Delhi Cantt

Abstract

Background: Electrolytes are involved in many metabolic and homeostatic functions, including enzymatic and biochemical reactions. Objective: To study clinical features of Electrolyte abnormalities in Intensive Care Unit patients, Base Hospital Delhi Cantt. Materials and methods: A prospective observational study of Clinical Profile of Electrolyte Abnormalities in patients admitted in Intensive Care Unit and their management and outcome at Base Hospital Delhi Cantt. The study was carried out over a period starting 01 Apr 2013 to 31 Sep 2014 at Intensive Care Unit at Base Hospital Delhi Cantt.Results:Hyperkalemia was more common electrolyte disorder in the ICU followed by Hypokalemia & hyponatremia. Hypermagnesemia and hypernatremia was the least common electrolyte disorder in our study. Muscle weakness and peaked T waves for hyperkalemia. Fatigue, muscle weakness, leg cramps and T wave flattening was the most common association with hypokalemia. Nausea, vomiting, headache, lethargy and altered sensorium for hyponatremia. Coma occurred in 2 patients and seizure in only one patient. Nausea, vomiting, headache and altered sensorium for hypernatremia.Conclusion:Clinical symptoms and findings of dyselectrolytemias in the ICU are a reflection of multiple interactions of electrolytes and regulatory systems. Therefore, it is suggested that clinicians working in emergency department should have good knowledge of fluid and electrolyte balance dynamics.