Florida State Paramedic Practice Exam

Which effect does hypokalemia have on the body?

1. Increased energy levels

2. Cardiac arrhythmias

3. Improved muscle strength

4. Reduced thirst

The correct answer is: Cardiac arrhythmias

Hypokalemia, defined as a lower-than-normal level of potassium in the blood, significantly impacts the body's physiological functions, particularly those related to muscle and nerve activity. One of the most critical effects of hypokalemia is the development of cardiac arrhythmias. Potassium is essential for maintaining the membrane potential of cells, especially cardiac myocytes, facilitating the proper conduction of electrical impulses through the heart. A deficiency in potassium can disrupt the normal rhythm of the heart, leading to various types of arrhythmias, including premature ventricular contractions, atrial fibrillation, and in severe cases, life-threatening conditions such as ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation. These arrhythmias can result from the altered excitability and conduction properties of cardiac cells due to the inadequate potassium levels. In contrast, other effects associated with hypokalemia would lead to reduced energy levels and muscle weakness rather than improvements in muscle strength or energy levels, and thirst is generally not alleviated by potassium deficiency. Therefore, the relationship between low potassium levels and the risk of arrhythmias is a crucial aspect of understanding the consequences of hypokalemia.