The nurse is caring for a client with a serum potassium level of 3.5 mEq/L. The client is placed on a cardiac monitor and receives 40 mEq potassium chloride in 1000 ml of 5% dextrose in water IV. Which of the following EKG patterns indicates to the nurse that the infusions should be discontinued?
A. Narrowed QRS complex
B. Shortened “PR” interval
C. Tall peaked “T” waves
D. Prominent “U” waves
Correct Answer: C. Tall peaked “T” waves
A tall peaked T wave is a sign of hyperkalemia. The healthcare provider should be notified regarding discontinuing the medication.
Option A: Narrow QRS complex indicates fast cardiac rhythms (generally more than 100 beats/min) with a QRS duration of 100 ms or less.
Option B: A short PR interval (<120 ms) is seen with preexcitation syndromes and AV nodal (junctional) rhythm.
Option D: Prominent U waves are characteristic of hypokalemia.