Electrolyte Disturbances in ICU Patients – Patterns, Predictors, and Outcomes in 70 Cases

Open Access

Abstract

Background: Electrolyte disturbances are common in critically ill patients and are associated with increased morbidity, prolonged ICU stay, and mortality. Understanding their prevalence, patterns, and predictors is essential for timely intervention. Objective: To evaluate the incidence, patterns, risk factors, and outcomes associated with electrolyte disturbances in ICU patients. Methods & Materials: This prospective observational study included 70 adult patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) over a six-month period. Serum electrolytes including sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and phosphate were measured at admission and monitored daily. Demographic data, comorbidities, severity of illness (APACHE II score), and clinical outcomes were recorded. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, logistic regression for predictors, and Kaplan–Meier survival curves for outcomes. Results: Electrolyte disturbances were detected in 81.4% of patients, with hyponatremia (42.8%) and hypokalemia (38.5%) being most prevalent. Hypocalcemia and hypomagnesemia occurred in 25.7% and 20% of cases, respectively. Multivariate analysis identified sepsis (OR 3.2; 95% CI 1.5–6.8), diuretic use (OR 2.7; 95% CI 1.2–5.9), and higher APACHE II score (OR 1.1 per point; 95% CI 1.02–1.18) as independent predictors of electrolyte imbalance. Patients with multiple electrolyte disturbances had significantly longer ICU stays (median 12 vs. 7 days, p<0.05) and higher mortality (28.5% vs. 7.1%, p<0.01). Conclusion: Electrolyte disturbances are highly prevalent in ICU patients and are associated with worse outcomes. Early identification of high-risk patients, close monitoring, and prompt correction of abnormalities may improve prognosis in critically ill populations.