What it means
A cation-exchange resin used to lower a high blood potassium (hyperkalemiahy-per-kuh-LEE-mee-uhA blood potassium level above normal, over 5.0 mEq/L.hyper- abovekal potassium (from its Latin name, kalium)-emia in the bloodFull entry ). It works over hours, so it is not used alone for a life-threatening level. It can cause constipation, low potassium, low magnesium and sodium overload, and rarely serious bowel damage.
For the nurse
Check potassium levels and bowel movements. Give other oral drugs at least 3 hours before or after it, since it can bind them. Watch for fluid overload in clients with heart failure.
At a glance
| Drug class | potassium-removing agent (cation-exchange resin) |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Kayexalate, Kionex, SPS |
| Also written | Kayexalate, Kionex |
Related terms
potassium
A mineral in the blood that nerves and muscles, including the heart, need in order to work.
hyperkalemia
A blood potassium level above normal, over 5.0 mEq/L.
constipation
Bowel movements that happen less often than usual, with hard, dry stool that is difficult to pass.