August/2006

ANSWER  6=C

DISCUSSION:

The basal nutritional requirement for potassium in an adult human being who is in the fed state, not fasted, is 60 mEq per day. In view of the current clinical findings of hypokalemia, it is appropriate – in the setting of normal renal functions – to administer 120 mEq in divided doses over 24 hours. The follow up determination of the serum potassium level then would guide any further replacement.