skip to main content

Hyperkalaemia — DIPIMC MCQ

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

HardMedical EmergenciesHyperkalaemiaDIPIMCDipIMC

A dialysis patient who has missed a session is weak and unwell. The ECG shows tall tented T waves and a broadened QRS complex, and the pulse is irregular.

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

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: E — Give intravenous calcium to stabilise the myocardium and arrange urgent transfer.

ECG changes of hyperkalaemia, namely tented T waves and QRS widening, in a dialysis patient indicate cardiac membrane instability, so intravenous calcium is given to stabilise the myocardium, with measures to shift and remove potassium and urgent transfer. Potassium administration would be dangerous. Oral resins act too slowly for an emergency that already shows ECG changes.

Reference: JRCALC Clinical Guidelines