Ion Imbalances In ECGs

Question 1

How would Hyperkalemia present on an ECG?

Answer 1

Tented T-waves which is a repolarization anomaly. No P-waves present across the board. If severe enough, all leads are affected.

Question 2

What features would indicate a Hypokalemic state in an ECG?

Answer 2

Prolonged QU interval and a depressed ST segment.

Question 3

How would Hypercalcemia present in an ECG?

Answer 3

Narrow QT interval due to the faster-than-normal depolarization of cardiomyocytes. This is due to the fast Ca++ influx to start ventricular contraction.

Question 4

How would Hypocalcemia present in an ECG?

Answer 4

Prolonged QT interval would be featured due to a slow ventricular depolarization. It takes a longer time for Ca++ influx to achieve a threshold from the ECF.

Question 5

What are some features present in a myocardial infarction?

Answer 5

Inverted T-waves, New Q-waves, ST-elevation (STEMI) caused from a coronary vessel occlusion that leads to ischemia and necrosis of cardiac tissue if prolonged