01
Front
What ECG changes are typical of hypokalemia?
Back
Flattened or depressed T waves, ST-segment depression, and prominent U waves are typical findings.
Free Online Flashcard Deck
3 Severe Potassium Abnormalities Free Online FlashCards
Study 3 Severe Potassium Abnormalities with 12 free online flashcards. Review key terms, definitions, and concepts with this interactive flashcard deck.
12 cards
02
Front
What life-threatening complication can severe hypokalemia cause?
Back
Severe hypokalemia can cause dangerous atrial and ventricular arrhythmias, including ventricular tachycardia and fibrillation.
03
Front
How is severe hypokalemia treated when oral medication is not possible?
Back
Severe or symptomatic hypokalemia may require IV potassium chloride with cardiac monitoring and repeat potassium measurements.
04
Front
What is the general upper limit for routine IV potassium infusion?
Back
Routine IV potassium infusion rates should generally not exceed 10 mmol/hour. Faster replacement is reserved for selected emergencies with continuous ECG monitoring and frequent laboratory checks.
05
Front
Which deficiency can make hypokalemia difficult to correct?
Back
Check for and correct hypomagnesemia; magnesium deficiency can make potassium depletion difficult to correct.
06
Front
What are early ECG changes of hyperkalemia?
Back
Tall, narrow-based peaked T waves and a shortened QT interval may be early ECG findings.
07
Front
What is the classic progression of hyperkalemia ECG changes?
Back
The classic progression is peaked T waves, PR prolongation and reduced P-wave amplitude, widened QRS, then a sine-wave pattern.
08
Front
What immediate treatment stabilizes the myocardium in hyperkalemia with ECG changes?
Back
Give IV calcium urgently to stabilize the myocardium when hyperkalemia causes ECG changes.
09
Front
Does IV calcium remove potassium from the body?
Back
No. IV calcium reduces myocardial toxicity but does not lower serum potassium, so potassium-lowering treatment is also needed.
10
Front
What treatments can shift potassium intracellularly in hyperkalemia?
Back
Insulin with glucose shifts potassium intracellularly; an inhaled beta-agonist may also be used when appropriate.
11
Front
When may dialysis be used for hyperkalemia?
Back
Arrange definitive potassium removal; dialysis is often used when hyperkalemia is severe, persistent, or associated with kidney failure.
12
Front
What should be monitored after insulin is given for hyperkalemia?
Back
Monitor glucose after insulin treatment because hypoglycemia can occur.
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