Qualified Medication Aides (QMA) Practice Exam

Which is a common side effect of potassium replacement medications?

1. Nausea

2. Rash

3. Headache

4. Increased appetite

The correct answer is: Nausea

Nausea is indeed a common side effect of potassium replacement medications. When patients receive potassium supplementation, especially through oral or intravenous routes, it can irritate the gastrointestinal tract. This irritation can lead to symptoms like nausea and sometimes vomiting. The body's response to an increase in potassium levels can also trigger gastrointestinal discomfort, which is why monitoring for nausea is crucial when administering these medications. While other side effects may occur, they are generally less common. For instance, a rash could indicate an allergic reaction but is not typically associated with potassium replacement. Headaches may arise due to various factors, but they are not directly linked to potassium supplementation. An increased appetite is not recognized as a standard side effect of potassium replacement, making nausea the clearest and most prevalent side effect to expect in patients receiving these medications.