Question

47 of 50
the nurse reviews a clients electrolyte laboratory report and notes that the potassium level is 2.5 meq/l (2.5 mmol/l). which patterns would the nurse watch for on the electrocardiogram (ecg) as a result of the laboratory value? select all that apply.
rationale, strategy, tip
answer options
1 u waves
2 absent p waves
3 inverted t waves
4 depressed st segment
5
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Explanation:

• Hypokalemia (potassium level \(2.5\ mEq/L\) which is below the normal range of \(3.5 - 5.0\ mEq/L\)) causes specific ECG changes.
• U waves: U waves are prominent in hypokalemia. They are small, positive deflections following the T wave.
• Inverted T waves: T waves can become flat or inverted in hypokalemia.
• Depressed ST segment: The ST segment may be depressed in hypokalemia.
• Absent P waves are not a typical finding in hypokalemia. Absent P waves can be seen in conditions like atrial fibrillation.
• Widened QRS complexes are more associated with hyperkalemia (high potassium levels) rather than hypokalemia.

Answer:

1. U waves
2. Inverted T waves
3. Depressed ST segment