A patient suspected of hyperkalemia is most likely to exhibit which of the following ECG changes?

A patient suspected of hyperkalemia is most likely to exhibit which of the following ECG changes?

• A. Flat T waves
• B. Wide QRS complex
• C. Tall, peaked T waves
• D. Shortened QT interval

Answer: (C)

In cases of hyperkalemia, one of the hallmark electrocardiogram (ECG) changes is the presence of tall, peaked T waves. This ECG pattern occurs due to the effects of elevated potassium levels on myocardial repolarization. As potassium levels rise, the action potential duration alters, leading to changes in the T wave morphology, which typically becomes tall and pointed instead of the usual rounded shape. Tall, peaked T waves are among the earliest changes seen in hyperkalemia and serve as an important clinical indicator to help identify patients at risk for more severe cardiac effects. If hyperkalemia continues and worsens, further ECG changes can occur, including the widening of the QRS complex and the eventual risk of ventricular fibrillation or asystole. Recognizing these specific ECG changes is crucial for timely intervention in treating hyperkalemia and preventing complications.

In cases of hyperkalemia, one of the hallmark electrocardiogram (ECG) changes is the presence of tall, peaked T waves. This ECG pattern occurs due to the effects of elevated potassium levels on myocardial repolarization. As potassium levels rise, the action potential duration alters, leading to changes in the T wave morphology, which typically becomes tall and pointed instead of the usual rounded shape.

Tall, peaked T waves are among the earliest changes seen in hyperkalemia and serve as an important clinical indicator to help identify patients at risk for more severe cardiac effects. If hyperkalemia continues and worsens, further ECG changes can occur, including the widening of the QRS complex and the eventual risk of ventricular fibrillation or asystole. Recognizing these specific ECG changes is crucial for timely intervention in treating hyperkalemia and preventing complications.