Dialysis Technician Practice Exam

Which symptom is indicative of hyperkalemia?

1. Nausea

2. Muscle Weakness

3. Chest Pain

4. Fatigue

The correct answer is: Muscle Weakness

Muscle weakness is a key symptom indicative of hyperkalemia, which refers to elevated levels of potassium in the blood. High potassium levels can disrupt normal electrical activity in muscles and nerves, leading to significant weakness. This can affect skeletal muscles, which are responsible for voluntary movements, and can even lead to severe complications affecting respiratory muscles and cardiac function. Individuals with hyperkalemia may experience varying degrees of muscle weakness, starting from mild fatigue to severe paralysis, depending on the potassium level in the blood. This symptom arises because potassium plays a crucial role in facilitating normal muscle contractions and nerve impulses. When potassium levels rise too high, muscle cells can become less responsive, resulting in decreased strength and control. The other choices, such as nausea, chest pain, and fatigue, may also occur in hyperkalemia but are more general and can stem from various conditions, making them less specific in indicating hyperkalemia compared to muscle weakness.