A client's potassium is 2.8 mEq/L. Which ECG change does the nurse expect?

A. Shortened QT interval
B. Widened QRS with sine waves
C. Prominent U waves and flattened T waves
D. Tall, peaked T waves

Show answer and rationale

Correct answer: C

Hypokalemia causes flattened T waves, U waves, and ST depression, and increases the risk of dysrhythmias, especially with digoxin.

Source: Lewis's Medical-Surgical Nursing, 13th ed. (hypokalemia)

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Study emergencies as a sequence: what you see, what it means, what you do first (DKA, sepsis, stroke, PE, anaphylaxis, tension pneumothorax).
Review fluid and electrolyte imbalances by their ECG and neuromuscular signs (peaked T waves, Chvostek and Trousseau signs).

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A client's potassium is 2.8 mEq/L. Which ECG change does the nurse expect?

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