Dialysis Technician Practice Exam

What is a common effect of hyperkalemia during dialysis treatments?

1. Increased heart rate

2. Muscle weakness

3. Low blood pressure

4. Increased urination

The correct answer is: Muscle weakness

Muscle weakness is indeed a common effect of hyperkalemia during dialysis treatments. Hyperkalemia, which refers to elevated potassium levels in the blood, can interfere with the normal electrical activity of muscle cells and neurons. This disruption can lead to a variety of symptoms, one of the most notable being muscle weakness. In the context of dialysis, where the removal of excess potassium is crucial, any failure to adequately manage potassium levels can result in significant muscle impairment, as the heart and skeletal muscles rely heavily on proper potassium levels to function effectively. In contrast, while increased heart rate and low blood pressure can occur due to other conditions or complications during dialysis, they are not direct effects of hyperkalemia. Increased urination is also typically not associated with hyperkalemia; in fact, patients on dialysis often experience reduced urine output due to their kidney function being compromised. Thus, recognizing muscle weakness as a common effect highlights the importance of monitoring and managing potassium levels in patients undergoing dialysis therapy.