Introduction:

The serum potassium increase> 5.5 mEq/L constitutes a serious electrolyte alteration as it can generate problems in cardiac conduction and potentially lethal arrhythmias. The electrocardiogram is a reliable source to determine hyperkalemia.

Objectives:

To describe electrocardiographic disorders in patients admitted to the Medical Clinic Service of the National Hospital in 2018.

Methodology:

Observational, cross-sectional, prospective study of a secondary database. The electrocardiograms and serum potassium levels were related in adult men and women with serum potassium> 5.5 mEq/L admitted to the Medical Clinic Service of the National Hospital (Itauguá, Paraguay) in the August-December 2018 period.

Results:

Forty three patients were included, 51% were males with an average age of 60±13 years and 49% women with an average age of 57±14 years. They were carriers of chronic renal failure in 91%. The average value of serum potassium was 6.5±0.8 mEq/L. In 18 (42%) subjects some electrocardiographic alteration compatible with hyperkalemia were detected. The most common findings were peaked T wave (21%), T/R index>0.75 (14%) and sinus bradycardia (5%).

Conclusion:

Electrocardiographic disorders were detected in 42% and the most frequent finding was the peaked T wave (21%).

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