QuestionSBA
QuestionChoice
T wave inversion, ST depression and the presence of U waves are characteristic ECG features of hypokalaemia. Risk factors for hypokalaemia in this patient are her advanced age, general frailty, use of furosemide and diarrhoea.
10008215
a
T wave inversion
QuestionChoice
These ECG changes would be consistent with a diagnosis of hypothermia and would not be present in a patient with hypokalaemia.
10008217
c
J waves and QRS prolongation
QuestionChoice
ST elevation is characteristic of a myocardial infarction. A localised ST elevation can also be seen in pericarditis. ST depression, rather than elevation, is seen in hypokalaemia. This option is therefore incorrect.
10008216
b
ST elevation
QuestionChoice
These ECG changes would be consistent with a diagnosis of hyperkalaemia and would not be present in a patient with hypokalaemia.
10008219
e
Peaked T wave PR interval prolongation
QuestionChoice
These ECG changes would be consistent with a diagnosis of pulmonary embolism and would not be present in a patient with hypokalaemia.
10008218
d
Pathological Q waves and inverted T waves
Concept
Chapter
2693
4653
Hypokalaemia
Topic
134
Cardiology
14190
A 83-year-old female is brought to the hospital by ambulance feeling weak and generally unwell. She has been experiencing diarrhoea up to six times a day for the past week, after eating some out-of-date meat at a barbecue.

She takes furosemide for peripheral oedema, and amlodipine for blood pressure control. She mobilises with two sticks but is primarily housebound.

On examination, she has a blood pressure of 118/90 mmHg and a respiratory rate of 12 breaths per minute. A venous blood gas reveals a potassium level of 2.2 mmol / L.

Which of the following ECG changes is most likely to be present?
a