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Crush syndrome with hyperkalaemia — RCPSC EM MCQ

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HardTraumaCrush syndrome with hyperkalaemiaRCPSC EM

A 23-year-old man is trapped under machinery for 5 hours and arrives after extrication. He has crushed thighs, tea-coloured urine, potassium 6.1 mmol/L, CK 48,000 U/L, and ECG shows peaked T waves. BP is 100/60. What is the most appropriate initial management?

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Correct answer: A — Give aggressive IV crystalloid and treat hyperkalaemia immediately

Crush syndrome causes rhabdomyolysis and hyperkalaemia. Early fluids and immediate hyperkalaemia management reduce renal injury and arrhythmic death.

Reference: ACLS/ATLS/PALS principles adapted to Canadian ED practice