What are signs of hyperkalemia visible on an EKG?

Hyperkalemia, which is an elevated level of potassium in the blood, has distinct manifestations on an electrocardiogram (EKG). The signs visible on the EKG due to hyperkalemia include peaked T waves, widening of the QRS complex, and the potential development of a sine wave pattern as the condition progresses.

Peaked T waves are often one of the earliest indicators of hyperkalemia on an EKG. This change results from alterations in cardiac myocyte repolarization due to high potassium levels. The widening of the QRS complex occurs as a consequence of the slowing of conduction through the ventricles, which is influenced by elevated extracellular potassium. The sine wave pattern, which represents a merging of the peaks into a smooth curve, is a more severe manifestation and is associated with a high risk of ventricular fibrillation and cardiac arrest.

In contrast to the options that describe other phenomena or conditions, the correct choice accurately highlights the important EKG changes linked to hyperkalemia. These changes signify the electrical disturbances that can lead to life-threatening cardiac dysrhythmias, making prompt recognition and treatment of hyperkalemia critical in clinical practice.