A patient with severe diarrhea has a serum potassium level of 2.5 mEq/L. What is the most likely cause of this hypokalemia?

A Increased renal excretion of potassium
B Gastrointestinal loss of potassium ✓
C Shift of potassium into cells
D Decreased dietary intake of potassium

Explanation

Severe diarrhea can lead to significant loss of potassium ions in the stool, resulting in hypokalemia.

Source

Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine
Electrolytes and Acid-Base Balance Clinical Physiology Electrolyte Imbalances Easy MEDICAL Confidence: high