Advanced Patient Assessment Practice Exam

What electrolyte abnormality is associated with irregular pulse, muscle weakness, and abdominal distention?

1. Hypokalemia

2. Hyponatremia

3. Hyperkalemia

4. Hypernatremia

The correct answer is: Hypokalemia

The correct answer is associated with hypokalemia, which refers to a lower than normal level of potassium in the blood. Potassium is a crucial electrolyte that plays a vital role in maintaining normal muscle function, including the muscles of the heart. When potassium levels drop, it can lead to various symptoms such as an irregular pulse due to its impact on cardiac conduction. Additionally, muscle weakness occurs because potassium is essential for muscle contraction and nerve signal transmission. Abdominal distention can also arise as low potassium levels affect smooth muscle activity in the gastrointestinal tract, potentially leading to decreased motility or paralysis. Other options present different electrolyte disturbances that do not typically correlate with the specific symptoms mentioned. For instance, sodium imbalances like hyponatremia and hypernatremia primarily affect water balance and neurological function, leading to symptoms such as confusion and seizures, rather than the muscle weakness and irregular pulse that are characteristic of potassium deficiency. Hyperkalemia, an excess of potassium, also causes distinct symptoms, mainly related to cardiac dysfunction and often presents with different signs notably a peaked T wave on an ECG, rather than muscle weakness.