What condition should the nurse identify as a cause of hypokalemia?

Hypokalemia, which refers to low potassium levels in the blood, can be associated with metabolic alkalosis. In metabolic alkalosis, the body experiences an increase in blood pH, leading to a decrease in potassium levels. This occurs because the body may retain bicarbonate and shift potassium into cells to maintain acid-base balance, resulting in decreased serum potassium.

In conditions leading to metabolic alkalosis, such as prolonged vomiting or excessive use of diuretics, potassium can be lost through urine or gastrointestinal drainage, further contributing to hypokalemia. Recognizing the link between these conditions is important for nurses as they assess and manage patients who may present with low potassium levels. Understanding the body's mechanisms and compensatory responses in relation to acid-base balance is crucial for effective nursing care.