A patient with severe hyperkalemia shows tall peaked T waves on the ECG. Which intravenous agent is given immediately to stabilize the cardiac myocardial membrane?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. Calcium gluconate
Answer: Calcium gluconate.
Why not the others: Insulin with dextrose shifts potassium into cells but does not immediately stabilize membrane threshold potential; Sodium bicarbonate shifts potassium intracellularly over 30 to 60 minutes; Sodium polystyrene sulfonate binds potassium in the intestine and takes hours to lower levels.
Why not the others: Insulin with dextrose shifts potassium into cells but does not immediately stabilize membrane threshold potential; Sodium bicarbonate shifts potassium intracellularly over 30 to 60 minutes; Sodium polystyrene sulfonate binds potassium in the intestine and takes hours to lower levels.
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