PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

What cardiac symptoms may be present in a hyperkalemic patient?

1. Bradycardia

2. Cardiac arrhythmias

3. Hypertension

4. Chest pain

The correct answer is: Cardiac arrhythmias

In the context of hyperkalemia, cardiac arrhythmias are a key symptom due to the effect of elevated potassium levels on cardiac myocyte depolarization and repolarization. High potassium can disrupt the normal electrical conductivity of the heart, leading to various arrhythmias that can manifest as changes in the heart's rhythm, including atrial fibrillation, ventricular fibrillation, or even asystole. The increased potassium levels can prolong the cardiac action potential, leading to slower conduction and potentially dangerous arrhythmic events. While bradycardia can occur due to hyperkalemia, it is a specific type of arrhythmia rather than a broader category. Hypertension can sometimes be seen in other contexts but is not a direct consequence of hyperkalemia. Similarly, chest pain may arise from numerous cardiovascular issues but is not a direct symptom attributable to hyperkalemia itself. Thus, the presence of cardiac arrhythmias is the most direct and significant cardiac symptom associated with hyperkalemia.