Which form of beta-agonist is used in the hyperkalemia treatment protocol?

• A. Levalbuterol 1.25 mg in 3 mL continuous SVN
• B. Levalbuterol 2.5 mg in 3 mL continuous SVN
• C. ALBUTEROL 2.5 mg in 3 mL continuous SVN
• D. Albuterol inhaler

Answer: (C)

The main idea is that a beta-agonist given by nebulization helps lower potassium by shifting it into cells. When beta-2 receptors are stimulated, the Na+/K+-ATPase pump is activated, moving potassium from the blood into cells and lowering the serum potassium quickly.

In this protocol, the preferred form is albuterol delivered by continuous nebulization, specifically a 2.5 mg dose in 3 mL of solution. This setup provides steady, reliable drug delivery for a rapid potassium reduction, which is important in acute hyperkalemia management. The other options don’t fit the protocol for this indication: levalbuterol doses differ and are not the standard choice here, and using an albuterol inhaler delivers a much smaller, less consistent amount than a continuous nebulized dose.