What is the suggested daily amount of potassium required for maintenance in an infant receiving parenteral nutrition?

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

Answer: (B)

In infants receiving parenteral nutrition, the amount of potassium given daily as maintenance is about 2–4 mEq per kg of body weight. This range reflects the need to provide enough potassium to support cellular function, nerve and muscle activity, and growth, while recognizing that infants have relatively small potassium stores and immature renal handling. Starting near the middle of this range and then adjusting based on daily serum potassium and urine output helps prevent both hypokalemia and hyperkalemia. The lower end (0.8–1 mEq/kg) is generally too little for maintenance in an infant, risking hypokalemia, while the higher ranges (5–6 or 7–8 mEq/kg) exceed maintenance needs and increase the risk of hyperkalemia.