Hyperkalemia

First Things First (assess & treat for the following)

Is the hyperkalemia real?
- Laboratory error: repeat test
- Pseudohyperkalemia: hemolysis, thrombocytosis, severe leukocytosis, fist clenching,
Is pt symptomatic?
- Most pts are asymptomatic
- Symptoms of hyperkalemia: generalized weakness, paralysis (severe)
- Signs of hyperkalemia: ventricular arrhythmias
- EKG changes: peaked T waves, shortened QT interval, flattening or absence of P waves, widened QRS complexes, sine waves (severe)

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