Hyperkalaemia Flashcards
1
Q
What is hyperkalaemia ?
A
Increase in potassium in the extracellular space which decreases myocardial activity.
2
Q
ECG changes only occur in how many patients?
A
under 50% therefore history is key
3
Q
How do I recognise Hyperkalaemia ?
A
- Peaked tented T waves
- P wave widened and flattened
- prolonged PR segment
4
Q
Recognition - severe hyperkalaemia
A
- Wide and bizarre QRS morphology
- AF
- Heart blocks
- Cardiac arrest
5
Q
What leads can Hyperkalaemia be present in?
A
All
6
Q
Signs and symptoms of Hyperkalaemia
A
- Chest pain
- palpitations
- Muscle cramps
- Bradycardia
7
Q
Significance of hyperkalaemia
A
pt suffering renal failure treated via haemodilysis, prescribed angiotensin-converting enzymes (ACE) inhibitors or potassium-sparing diuretics are at increased chance of suffering from hyperkalaemia.
