Question 15

A patient with end-stage renal disease is suspected to have hyperkalemia when observed to be extremely weak.

Extreme weakness in a patient with end-stage renal disease can indicate hyperkalemia, as elevated potassium levels can lead to muscle fatigue and weakness due to the effects on neuromuscular function.

A) extremely weak

This option is correct because extreme weakness is a common manifestation of hyperkalemia. In patients with end-stage renal disease, the kidneys are unable to excrete potassium effectively, leading to its accumulation and subsequent neuromuscular symptoms such as muscle weakness.

B) increasingly anorexic

While anorexia can occur in patients with renal disease, it is not a specific indicator of hyperkalemia. Anorexia may result from various factors, including metabolic changes or other complications of renal failure, and does not directly correlate with potassium levels.

C) craving salty foods

Craving salty foods is generally not associated with hyperkalemia. Patients with renal disease often have dietary restrictions, including reduced sodium intake, and cravings for salty foods do not indicate elevated potassium levels.

D) complaining of double vision

Double vision is not a recognized symptom of hyperkalemia. While it could be related to other neurological or ophthalmological issues, it does not specifically indicate high potassium levels in the context of end-stage renal disease.

Conclusion

Extreme weakness is a clear and significant symptom indicating hyperkalemia in patients with end-stage renal disease, as it directly relates to the physiological effects of high potassium levels on muscle function. The other options do not provide specific links to hyperkalemia, making them less relevant in this context. Thus, extreme weakness stands out as the most indicative symptom of the condition.