Question

A 77-year-old with bradycardia and hyperkalemia (K⁺ 7.2 mEq/L) has wide QRS on ECG and hypotension. First medication?

Accepted Answer

IV calcium (e.g., calcium gluconate) to stabilize myocardium

Answer

IV insulin without dextrose

Answer

Sodium polystyrene sulfonate first

Answer

IV bicarbonate as sole therapy

Answer

No treatment until repeat K⁺ returns

Practice question

A 77-year-old with bradycardia and hyperkalemia (K⁺ 7.2 mEq/L) has wide QRS on ECG and hypotension. First medication?