Assessment of Electrolyte Disturbances in Hospitalized Patients with COVID-19

Abstract

Background: Electrolyte abnormalities are commonly observed among patients admitted for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). These electrolyte imbalances may affect the severity of COVID-19 infection in patients. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of electrolyte imbalances among COVID-19 patients admitted in various hospitals and their possible clinical consequences. Methods: An observational cross-sectional study was carried out among 130 adult patients admitted with confirmed COVID-19 infection in a tertiary care hospital in Peshawar, Pakistan, between January 2021 and December 2022. Serum levels of sodium, potassium, calcium, and chloride were estimated on admission. The abnormalities of these electrolytes were determined based on standard reference ranges. Data was collected, and patterns of electrolyte abnormalities were observed. Results: The electrolyte abnormalities were found in 64.7% of patients. The electrolyte abnormalities were found to be hyponatremia in 34.6%, followed by hypocalcemia in 29.2%, and hypokalemia in 25.3%. The electrolyte abnormalities were less frequently observed in the form of hypernatremia and hyperkalemia in 5.3% and 7.6%, respectively. The electrolyte abnormalities were associated with comorbid conditions such as hypertension and diabetes mellitus. The electrolyte abnormalities were associated with severe disease and longer hospitalization. Conclusion: Electrolyte abnormalities like hyponatremia, hypocalcemia, and hypokalemia are commonly observed among hospitalized COVID-19 patients. These electrolyte imbalances are linked with increased severity and worsening outcomes among COVID-19 patients. Therefore, early recognition and management of these electrolyte imbalances are essential for improving the care and prognosis of COVID-19 patients.