The Critical Care Phenotype of Hypokalemic Paralysis: Etiology, Outcomes, and Predictors of Respiratory Failure in a Retrospective Cohort Study

HPP in the ICU represents a distinct critical care phenotype with a high risk of respiratory failure. As the requirement for mechanical ventilation was not predicted by admission potassium levels, vigilant monitoring for respiratory muscle fatigue is warranted in all cases. Favorable outcomes are achievable with prompt correction and treatment of the underlying cause, reinforcing that HPP is a reversible ICU emergency.