Which of the following treatments is appropriate for tall peaked T waves, on ECG ?
**Core Concept**
Tall peaked T waves on an electrocardiogram (ECG) are indicative of hyperkalemia, a condition where there is an elevated level of potassium ions (K+) in the blood. This condition can lead to cardiac arrhythmias and even cardiac arrest if left untreated.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The treatment for hyperkalemia involves stabilizing the cardiac membranes, shifting potassium ions back into the cells, and removing excess potassium from the body. Calcium gluconate is administered to stabilize the cardiac membranes, while insulin and glucose are given to shift potassium ions into the cells. Potassium-binding resins are used to remove excess potassium from the body. In this context, the correct answer involves the administration of calcium gluconate to stabilize the cardiac membranes.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** Sodium bicarbonate is sometimes used to treat hyperkalemia by promoting the movement of potassium into cells, but it is not the primary treatment for tall peaked T waves.
* **Option B:** Potassium-binding resins are used to remove excess potassium from the body, but they are not the first line of treatment for hyperkalemia.
* **Option D:** Insulin and glucose are used to shift potassium ions into cells, but they are not the primary treatment for stabilizing the cardiac membranes.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
In the treatment of hyperkalemia, it's essential to remember the "ABCs" of treatment: Administer calcium gluconate (A) to stabilize the cardiac membranes, followed by the administration of insulin and glucose (B) to shift potassium ions into cells, and finally, use potassium-binding resins (C) to remove excess potassium from the body.
**Correct Answer: C. Calcium gluconate**