K rider
Formal Definition
An intravenous potassium chloride infusion, typically ordered as a "rider" running alongside or in addition to maintenance IV fluids, used to correct hypokalemia; standard doses range from 10–40 mEq per bag infused over 1–2 hours depending on severity and access.
How It's Used on the Ward
"Hang a K rider" or "order a K rider" — shorthand on the floor for any IV potassium repletion order piggybacked onto existing IV access.
Example
""K came back 3.1 on the morning BMP. She's on furosemide, has been vomiting. Started a K rider — 40 mEq IV over 2 hours — and added oral KCl 40 mEq twice daily.""
Clinical Context
Potassium is critical for cardiac conduction — hypokalemia (K <3.5) increases arrhythmia risk, especially in patients on digoxin or with pre-existing arrhythmias. IV potassium must be infused slowly: central line allows up to 20 mEq/hr; peripheral access max 10 mEq/hr (faster causes pain and phlebitis). Recheck level 2–4 hours after repletion. Magnesium must also be replete: hypomagnesemia prevents potassium from staying intracellular.
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