Which laboratory result may prompt immediate IV potassium administration?

A potassium level of 3.2 is clinically significant as it indicates hypokalemia, which can lead to serious cardiac complications. When potassium levels drop below the normal range, typically considered to be 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L, patients may experience muscle weakness, cramping, and potentially life-threatening arrhythmias.

Immediate intravenous potassium administration is often warranted in cases where the potassium is severely low, particularly when levels are significantly below 3.5. Levels such as 3.2 can require urgent treatment to restore normal potassium levels, especially if the patient is symptomatic or if there is concern for effects on cardiac function, as low potassium can lead to increased cardiac excitability and the risk of arrhythmias.

In contrast, potassium levels of 3.5, 4.0, and 4.5 are within or near the normal range, and while they may warrant monitoring or other forms of management, they do not typically require immediate intravenous potassium administration.