A multidisciplinary protocol improves electrolyte replacement and its effectiveness

BackgroundWe implemented a multidisciplinary electrolyte replacement protocol in a tertiary referral center surgical intensive care unit. The purpose of this study was to evaluate its efficacy.MethodsThis was a retrospective study. The electrolyte replacement protocol was designed for the replacement of potassium, magnesium, and phosphorous and was nurse driven. Data evaluated included patient demographics and details specific to electrolyte replacement. Univariate analyses were performed by using the Student t test and the Fisher exact test. A P value of <.05 was considered significant.ResultsAfter implementation of the protocol, overall electrolyte replacement improved from 70% to 79% (P = .03), and its overall effectiveness increased from 50% to 65% (P = .01). Individual electrolyte replacement, effectiveness, and dosing varied.ConclusionsThe implementation of a multidisciplinary electrolyte replacement protocol in a tertiary referral center surgical intensive care unit significantly improved both overall electrolyte replacement and its effectiveness.