Hypomagnesemia

Hypomagnesemia:
Risk Factors:

• GI loss
• Alcoholism
• Diuretics
• Pancreatitis
• Hypocalcemia
• Hypokalemia
• Insulin resistance
• DKA

Manifestations:

• Magnesium < 1.8 mEq/L
• Tetany, cramps
• Increased DTRs
• Paresthesia
• Dysrhythmias
• Trousseau’s sign
• Chvostek’s sign
• Agitation, confusion

Interventions:

• Seizure precautions
• Assess for difficulty swallowing
• Correct underlying cause
• IV magnesium
• Teach food sources
• NOTE: monitor for signs of magnesium toxicity with IV replacement and treat with calcium gluconate