Discharge Instructions for Hyperkalemia (Pediatric)
Discharge Instructions for Hyperkalemia (Pediatric)
Your child has been diagnosed with hyperkalemia, which is a high level of potassium in the blood. Potassium helps with the function of nerve and muscle cells, including those in the heart. A high level of potassium in the blood can cause abnormal heart rhythms and inability to breathe, and it can even cause the heart to stop beating. Here's what you need to know about home care.
Diet changes
Your child should eat less of these potassium-rich foods:
Bananas (your child should avoid bananas completely)
Apricots
Oranges and orange juices
Dried fruit
Tomatoes
Spinach
Melons
Peas
Dry beans
Potatoes
Sweet potatoes
Avocados
Milk
Yogurt
Other home care
Tell your healthcare provider about all prescription and over-the-counter medicines your child is taking. Several medicines can increase potassium levels.
Be sure to give your child all medicines exactly as directed by your healthcare provider.
Learn to take your child’s pulse. If your child’s pulse is less than 60 beats per minute or irregular, call your child’s provider. If your child is an infant, report any pulse less than 80 beats per minute.
Follow-up
Follow up with your healthcare provider, or as advised.
Have your child’s potassium levels checked regularly.
Keep all follow-up appointments. Your child’s healthcare provider needs to monitor your child’s condition closely.
When to call your child's healthcare provider
Call the provider right away if your child has any of the following:
Fatigue
Shortness of breath
Chest pain
Slow, irregular heartbeat
Fainting
Dizziness
Lightheadedness
Confusion
Updated:  
October 08, 2017
Sources:  
Lehnhardt A. Pathogenesis, Diagnosis and Management of Hyperkalemia. Pediatric Nephrology. 2011;26(3):s377-s384., Management of hyperkalemia in children, Up To Date
Reviewed By:  
Adler, Liora, C., MD,Wilkins, Joanna, RD, CD