Presentation Information
[P-8-01]Prevalence of Hypokalemia in Psychiatric Inpatients at Grhasia Mental Hospital Yogyakarta
*Theresia Rini Krisniati, Fathimah Az Zahra, Naila Amalia, Januarius Sefriyanto, Wikan Ardiningrum (Grhasia Mental Hospital, Yogyakarta(Indonesia))
Keywords:
antipsychotic,hypokalemia,schizophrenia
Background: Hypokalemia, defined as a plasma potassium level below 3.5 mEq/L, is often overlooked in psychiatric patients despite its clinical significance. Methods: This study examines the prevalence of hypokalemia in psychiatric inpatients at Grhasia Mental Hospital, Yogyakarta, from October to December 2023. A cross-sectional analysis of 365 patient records was conducted. Results: The majority (74.8%) were diagnosed with schizophrenia spectrum and other psychotic disorders. The overall prevalence of hypokalemia was 28.8%, with 4.9% of cases presenting with potassium levels below 3.0 mEq/L. Chi-square analysis showed no significant association between psychiatric diagnosis and hypokalemia (p=0.517) or between prior psychiatric treatment and hypokalemia (p=0.144). Conclusion: Given the high prevalence, routine electrolyte monitoring in psychiatric inpatients is essential to prevent complications. Further research is needed to explore the impact of antipsychotic medications on potassium regulation and to develop strategies for early detection and management of hypokalemia in psychiatric care.