Hyperkalemia—November 29, 1995

Hyperkalemia—November 29, 1995

When tissues are damaged or undergo extensive necrosis, or when tissues are exposed to high temperatures, or when tissue cells are starved, potassium ions inside the cells move into the extracellular fluid, leading to elevated serum potassium levels. Renal failure during the oliguric phase and deficiency of mineralocorticoids can also cause potassium excretion disorders, resulting in hyperkalemia. Clinical manifestations of hyperkalemia include sudden muscle paralysis, abrupt arrhythmias, and cardiac arrest. ECG shows prolonged PR interval, widened QRS complex, tall T waves, and tachycardia. Treatment for hyperkalemia includes intravenous infusion of 10% calcium gluconate, 250 mL of 5% sodium bicarbonate, furosemide, and mannitol.