AEMCA Practice Exam

Which of the following are complications associated with hypokalemia?

1. High blood pressure and fever

2. Cardiac arrhythmias and muscle cramping

3. Nausea and headaches

4. Skin rashes and coughing

The correct answer is: Cardiac arrhythmias and muscle cramping

Hypokalemia, which is a condition characterized by low levels of potassium in the blood, can lead to various complications, primarily affecting the muscular and cardiovascular systems. One of the significant complications associated with hypokalemia is the occurrence of cardiac arrhythmias. Potassium is critical for maintaining normal heart rhythm, and its deficiency can disrupt the electrical signaling in the heart, leading to irregular heartbeats that can potentially be life-threatening. Muscle cramping is another common complication of hypokalemia. Potassium is essential for proper muscle contraction and relaxation. When potassium levels drop, it can result in muscle weakness and cramps, which are often painful and can affect physical activity and quality of life. The other options do not accurately reflect the primary complications associated with hypokalemia. High blood pressure and fever are not directly linked to low potassium levels. While nausea and headaches might occur due to various causes, they are not specifically tied to hypokalemia. Skin rashes and coughing also do not have a direct relationship with potassium levels and are not recognized as complications of hypokalemia. Thus, the manifestations of cardiac arrhythmias and muscle cramping stand out as significant and direct impacts of this electrolyte imbalance.