Hyperkalemia, which refers to an elevated level of potassium in the blood, has specific effects on the electrocardiogram (EKG) that are important for recognizing and managing the condition. The correct answer highlights that hyperkalemia leads to peaked T waves and wide QRS complexes on the EKG.
As potassium levels rise, the myocardial cell membrane becomes more depolarized, which primarily affects the repolarization phase of the cardiac action potential. This results in changes in the shape and duration of the T wave, leading to its characteristic peaking. Furthermore, as severity increases, the QRS complex begins to widen. This widening occurs because increased potassium disrupts the normal conduction pathway through the ventricles, delaying ventricular depolarization.
These distinct EKG changes are critical indicators for clinicians, as they can lead to life-threatening arrhythmias if not promptly recognized and treated. The identification of peaked T waves and wide QRS complexes is essential for diagnosing hyperkalemia in a clinical setting, emphasizing the importance of monitoring potassium levels in patients at risk for electrolyte imbalances.