Conclusion
In summary, hyperkalemia is a common and potentially fatal condition that is readily reversible with appropriate drug therapy in most cases if detected early enough. It is important to confirm an elevated serum potassium level with both an ECG and a repeat study (particularly in the case of hyperkalemia in the presence of a normal ECG) because of the risk of"pseudohyperkalemia." Confirmation ensures that the serum potassium level is accurate and allows for appropriate treatment without risk of including hypokalemia. Most treatments for hyperkalemia are temporary and work by first stabilizing the cardiac cell membrane, then by driving the potassium intracellularly where it does not affect the heart. The mainstay of treatment must include removal or the excess potassium from the body, which can be accomplished by medication, fluids, and sometimes dialysis. Providing prompt identification and appropriate treatment in these patients is a role tailor-made for the interdisciplinary ED team.