ECG changes have a sequential progression, which roughly correlate with the potassium level. Early changes of hyperkalemia include tall, peaked T waves with a narrow base, best seen in precordial leads ; shortened QT interval; and ST-segment depression.
Then, how do you remember hyperkalemia on ECG?
In this regard, what do you give first for hyperkalemia?
Patients with hyperkalemia and characteristic ECG changes should be given intravenous calcium gluconate. Acutely lower potassium by giving intravenous insulin with glucose, a beta2 agonist by nebulizer, or both.
What’s the difference between hypokalemia and hyperkalemia?
Having too little potassium (less than 3.5 mEq/L) is called hypokalemia, while having too much (more than 5.5 mEq/L) is called hyperkalemia.
Why does hyperkalemia cause wide QRS?
As serum potassium levels increase to greater than 6.5 mEq/L, the rate of phase 0 of the action potential decreases, leading to a longer action potential and, in turn, a widened QRS complex and prolonged PR interval.
Why is QRS widened in hyperkalemia?
Early changes of hyperkalemia include peaked T waves, shortened QT interval, and ST-segment depression. These changes are followed by bundle-branch blocks causing a widening of the QRS complex, increases in the PR interval, and decreased amplitude of the P wave (see the images below).