What is the suggested daily amount of potassium in preterm infants, term infants and children?

• A. 2-4 mEq/kg
• B. 0.8-1 mEq/kg
• C. 5-6 mEq/kg
• D. 7-8 mEq/kg

Answer: (A)

Potassium needs for pediatric patients on nutrition support are expressed per kilogram of body weight per day, and the maintenance range for preterm infants, term infants, and children sits at about 2-4 mEq/kg/day. This range provides enough potassium to support intracellular functions, nerve and muscle activity, and overall growth while avoiding the risks of both deficiency and excess. In practice, clinicians often start around 2 mEq/kg/day and adjust upward toward 3-4 mEq/kg/day based on ongoing monitoring of serum potassium, acid-base status, and renal function. Too little potassium can lead to hypokalemia with weakness and arrhythmias, whereas too much can cause hyperkalemia, especially if kidney function is impaired or if there is acidosis.