Hyperkalaemia

Question 1

What ECG changes are seen in hyperkalaemia?

Answer 1

Tall tented T Waves

Small P waves

Widened QRS –> asystole

Question 2

What are some causes of hyperkalaemia?

Answer 2

• Acute renal failure
• Drugs*: potassium sparing diuretics, ACE inhibitors, angiotensin 2 receptor blockers, spironolactone, ciclosporin, heparin
• Metabolic acidosis
• Addison’s
• Rhabdomyolysis
• Massive blood transfusion

Question 3

What are some foods that are high in potassium?

Answer 3

• Salt substitutes (contain potassium not sodium)
• Bananas
• Oranges
• Kiwi
• Avocado
• Spinach
• Tomatoes