What does the mnemonic "MACHINE" refer to in the context of hyperkalemia causes?

• A. Medical history of patients
• B. Risk factors for cardiovascular disease
• C. Identified causes of hyperkalemia
• D. Approaches to manage diabetes

Answer: (C)

The mnemonic "MACHINE" is widely used in nursing and medical education to help remember the identified causes of hyperkalemia. Each letter in "MACHINE" corresponds to a specific cause of elevated potassium levels in the blood. This aids in efficiently recalling complex medical information, which is particularly useful in clinical settings.

The components of the mnemonic typically include things like:

• M: Medications (such as potassium-sparing diuretics)

• A: Acidosis (especially metabolic)

• C: Cell destruction (which can occur in trauma, hemolysis, or burns)

• H: Hyperaldosteronism (a condition that disrupts the balance of salts in the body)

• I: Intake (excessive dietary potassium)

• N: Nephrons (decreased renal function)

• E: Excretion (impaired kidney excretion)

Recognizing and remembering the specific causes associated with hyperkalemia using "MACHINE" can significantly aid nursing professionals in their assessments and interventions, ensuring timely and appropriate care for patients with elevated potassium levels. Understanding this mnemonic enhances the ability to provide comprehensive nursing assessments leading to effective management strategies.