Potassium Physiology Quiz

What is the most abundant cation in the intracellular fluid (ICF)?

• Sodium

• Calcium

• Potassium

• Magnesium

What is the normal content range of potassium in the extracellular fluid (ECF)?

• 2.0-3.0 mmol

• 3.5-5.0 mmol

• 5.5-6.5 mmol

• 1.0-2.0 mmol

Which organ is primarily responsible for the elimination of potassium?

• Liver

• Kidney

• Lungs

• Skin

What effect does insulin have on potassium levels?

• Decreases cellular uptake of K+

• Increases cellular uptake of K+

• No effect on K+ levels

• Causes K+ to be excreted

What happens to the resting membrane potential of a cell during hypokalemia?

• Becomes more positive

• Becomes more negative

• Remains unchanged

• Becomes neutral

What is the serum potassium level in hypokalemia?

• < 2.5 mmol

• < 3.5 mmol

• < 4.5 mmol

• < 5.5 mmol

Which of the following is a cause of hypokalemia due to inadequate intake?

• Dietary intake < 40 mmol/day

• Excessive exercise

• High sodium diet

• Increased water intake

Which of the following is NOT a cause of excessive potassium loss?

• GI (V/D)

• Renal (diuretics, aldosterone)

• Skin (trauma)

• High potassium diet

What role does potassium play in muscle function?

• Inhibits muscle contraction

• Conducts nerve impulses and excitability

• Decreases muscle strength

• Causes muscle fatigue

What is a transcellular shift in the context of hypokalemia?

• Movement of K+ from ECF to ICF

• Movement of K+ from ICF to ECF

• Movement of Na+ from ECF to ICF

• Movement of Na+ from ICF to ECF