The purpose of Kayexalate is to

• A. Increase serum sodium level
• B. Reduce serum potassium
• C. Decrease phosphorus absorption
• D. Prevent loss of calcium

Answer: (B)

Kayexalate lowers elevated potassium by binding potassium in the gut and promoting its excretion in the stool through a sodium-potassium exchange in the colon. This intestinal binding and removal of potassium reduces serum potassium levels, addressing hyperkalemia. It does not raise serum sodium as the primary goal, and it does not affect phosphorus absorption or calcium balance.