Which ECG finding is most consistent with hypokalemia caused by loop diuretics?

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Multiple Choice

Which ECG finding is most consistent with hypokalemia caused by loop diuretics?

Explanation:
Potassium helps cells reset after each heartbeat, so when potassium is low, the heart’s repolarization is slowed. That slowing shows up on the ECG as a flattening of the T wave, because the ventricular repolarization is less pronounced. Loop diuretics promote potassium loss in the kidneys, leading to hypokalemia and its characteristic ECG changes. While additional signs like U waves can appear and the QT interval may be prolonged with hypokalemia, flattening of the T wave is the most readily observable and commonly reported change in this context.

Potassium helps cells reset after each heartbeat, so when potassium is low, the heart’s repolarization is slowed. That slowing shows up on the ECG as a flattening of the T wave, because the ventricular repolarization is less pronounced. Loop diuretics promote potassium loss in the kidneys, leading to hypokalemia and its characteristic ECG changes. While additional signs like U waves can appear and the QT interval may be prolonged with hypokalemia, flattening of the T wave is the most readily observable and commonly reported change in this context.

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