Prevalence and Patterns of Serum Electrolyte Imbalances Among Patients Attending a Tertiary Hospital in Central Kenya

Serum Electrolyte imbalances (SEIs) have not only been associated with poor prognosis of underlying diseases, but also increased morbidity and mortality rates. Studies have reported a myriad of risk factors associated with occurrence of SEIs, including old age, renal diseases, cardiovascular disease, malignancy, and chronic illnesses. Little remains unknown about prevalence of EIs in Kenya. This study undertook to underpin the prevalence of SEIs at Thika Level 5 Hospital (TL5H), a tertiary hospital in central Kenya. A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted at Thika Level V Hospital in Kiambu County. Data collected was used to compute descriptive and inferential statistics. A total of one hundred and fifty-seven participants were recruited. They had a mean age of 41.05±21.37, with the majority being males 82(52.2%). 87(55.4%) participants had normal serum electrolyte levels. The mean potassium level was 4.16±0.62mmol/L, sodium was 147.12±5.63mmol/L and chloride was 108.27±11.89mmol/L. Dyschloremia was the most prevalent EI, presenting in 57(36.3%) participants. Female participants were slightly more likely to present with potassium and chloride imbalances, male participants were more likely to present with a sodium imbalance. Patients presenting with dyschloremia were more than two times likely to present with dyskalemia [AOR=2.634, 95%CI (1.104- 6.285), P=0.026]. In conclusion, dyschloremia, particularly hyperchloremia, is the most prevalent electrolyte imbalance. Moreover, despite there being no significant association between gender and EI, females are much likely to present with an EI, compared to the male counterparts. Further research should be conducted to understand causes and risk factors for the increased EI prevalence levels, particularly in females. Treatment should emphasize on fluid and electrolyte replacement management as core in clinical intervention.