Which of the Following is True of Hyperkalemia

Question

Which of the following is true of hyperkalemia?
A) Also causes blood volume expansion and hypertension
B) Refers to an elevation in serum potassium
C) Is most often due to impaired respiratory function
D) Is due to an accumulation of urea in the blood

Accepted Answer

Hyperkalemia refers to an elevation in serum potassium levels. It can be caused by various factors such as kidney dysfunction, certain medications, and acidosis. It can lead to symptoms such as muscle weakness, cardiac arrhythmias, and respiratory distress. It does not cause blood volume expansion and hypertension, nor is it due to an accumulation of urea in the blood. Impaired respiratory function can lead to hypercapnia, which is a buildup of carbon dioxide in the blood, but not hyperkalemia.