Question

A 54-year-old man presents with polyuria, polydipsia and muscle weakness. Serum potassium is 6.8 mmol/L, creatinine 280 µmol/L, and ECG shows peaked T waves and widened QRS complexes. What is the most urgent first pharmacologic intervention?

Accepted Answer

Intravenous calcium gluconate

Answer

Intravenous furosemide

Answer

Oral sodium polystyrene sulfonate

Answer

Insulin with dextrose only

Answer

Emergency dialysis without temporising measures

Practice question

A 54-year-old man presents with polyuria, polydipsia and muscle weakness. Serum potassium is 6.8 mmol/L, creatinine 280 µmol/L, and ECG shows peaked T waves and widened QRS complexes. What is the most urgent first pharmacologic intervention?