What symptom is part of the hyperkalemia S/S mnemonic MURDER?

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Multiple Choice

What symptom is part of the hyperkalemia S/S mnemonic MURDER?

Hyperkalemia directly affects skeletal muscle excitability. When extracellular potassium rises, the resting membrane potential becomes less negative, which initially makes cells more excitable but quickly leads to inactivation of sodium channels and reduced action-potential generation. The net result is muscle weakness that can progress to paralysis. In the hyperkalemia S/S mnemonic MURDER, muscle weakness is a primary component, making it the best answer. Rash, nausea, and headache are not characteristic signs of elevated potassium; they’re more nonspecific or related to other conditions.

Hyperkalemia directly affects skeletal muscle excitability. When extracellular potassium rises, the resting membrane potential becomes less negative, which initially makes cells more excitable but quickly leads to inactivation of sodium channels and reduced action-potential generation. The net result is muscle weakness that can progress to paralysis. In the hyperkalemia S/S mnemonic MURDER, muscle weakness is a primary component, making it the best answer. Rash, nausea, and headache are not characteristic signs of elevated potassium; they’re more nonspecific or related to other conditions.

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