Answer to Question 1
Answer: B
Excess potassium loss through the kidneys is often caused by such medications as corticosteroids, potassium-wasting (loop) diuretics, amphotericin B, and large doses of some antibiotics. Cortisol is a type of corticosteroid and can cause hypokalemia. Thiazide diuretics, narcotics, and muscle relaxers would not bring about potassium loss to cause hypokalemia.
Answer to Question 2
Answer: C
Hypotonic dehydration occurs when fluid loss is characterized by a proportionately greater loss of sodium than water, causing serum sodium to fall below normal levels. Isotonic dehydration occurs when fluid loss is not balanced by intake, and the losses of water and sodium are in proportion. Hydrostatic pressure occurs when extracellular fluid volume excess occurs; the increased fluid volume in the vascular compartment congests the veins. Osmotic pressure pulls fluid into the capillaries, usually in response to the presence of albumin and other plasma proteins made by the liver.