Hyperkalemia causes:
A) an increase in resting membrane potential with increased excitability of cardiac muscle.
B) a decrease in resting membrane potential with increased excitability of cardiac muscle.
C) an increase in resting membrane potential with decreased excitability of cardiac muscle.
D) a decrease in resting membrane potential with decreased excitability of cardiac muscle.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Hyperkalemia (high levels of potassium in the blood) causes an increase in the resting membrane potential of cardiac muscle cells, meaning they are more likely to depolarize and fire an action potential. This leads to increased excitability of the cardiac muscle, which can result in arrhythmias and even cardiac arrest.

Hyperkalemia Causes