What could be causing the bradyarrhythmia in Mila?

• A. Hyperkalemia
• B. Hypokalemia
• C. Hypernatremia
• D. Hyponatremia

Answer: (A)

Potassium level has a direct impact on how fast and how smoothly the heart conducts electrical impulses. When potassium is elevated, the resting membrane potential becomes less negative, which inactivates some sodium channels and slows the upstroke of the action potential. This slows conduction through the AV node and ventricles and can reduce automaticity, producing a bradycardic state. As hyperkalemia worsens, you can see PR prolongation, QRS widening, and, in severe cases, a sine-wave pattern that can progress to arrest. So, the bradyarrhythmia is best explained by high potassium levels. Hypokalemia tends to increase excitability and predispose to tachyarrhythmias rather than bradycardia. Hypernatremia or hyponatremia mainly affect neurologic status and fluid balance, with less direct, typical impact on heart rate or conduction compared to hyperkalemia.