Which cardiovascular effect is most commonly from potassium shift in uroabdomen?

• A. Bradycardia
• B. Tachycardia
• C. Hypertension
• D. Arrhythmia

Answer: (A)

Potassium balance and its effect on cardiac conduction. When urine leaks into the abdomen (uroabdomen), potassium-rich urine is absorbed, causing acute hyperkalemia. Elevated extracellular potassium dampens cardiac excitability by depolarizing the resting membrane potential and partially inactivating sodium channels, which slows conduction through the SA and AV nodes. The heart slows, producing bradycardia, and can progress to conduction blocks or other rhythm problems if the imbalance is severe. So, the most common cardiovascular effect from this potassium shift is a slower heart rate. Tachycardia and hypertension aren’t typical responses to hyperkalemia, and while arrhythmias can occur, bradycardia best describes the frequent, direct impact of the elevated potassium in this scenario.