A patient with a serum potassium level of 6.8 mEq/L may exhibit electrocardiographic changes of
a. a prominent U wave.
b. tall, peaked T waves.
c. a narrowed QRS.
d. sudden ventricular dysrhythmias.
B
Normal serum potassium levels are 3.5 to 4.5 mEq/L. Tall, narrow peaked T waves are usually, although not uniquely, associated with early hyperkalemia and are followed by prolongation of the PR interval, loss of the P wave, widening of the QRS complex, heart block, and asystole. Severely elevated serum potassium (greater than 8 mEq/L) causes a wide QRS tachycardia.
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