skip to main content

Cardiac arrest with suspected hyperkalaemia — DipIMC MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

ModerateResuscitationCardiac arrest with suspected hyperkalaemiaDipIMC

A dialysis patient collapses in a community clinic. The monitor shows pulseless electrical activity with broad complexes and a missed dialysis history from the family. What is the most appropriate immediate action?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: CContinue ALS and treat suspected hyperkalaemia as a reversible cause

Continue ALS and treat suspected hyperkalaemia as a reversible cause is the best answer because broad-complex PEA in a dialysis patient should prompt active treatment of hyperkalaemia during ALS. Give a large crystalloid bolus before controlling the injury is less appropriate because fluid cannot replace early control of bleeding or ventilation problems; Wait for imaging before intervening is less appropriate because imaging is not available or appropriate before treating a clinical life threat. Transport without treating the identified time-critical problem and Delay intervention until arrival at hospital are also suboptimal because they move attention away from the key pre-hospital priority.. The key DipIMC principle is to treat immediate reversible threats, communicate clearly and move the patient toward the right definitive care.

Reference: Resuscitation Council UK Guidelines; JRCALC Guidelines