**Core Concept**
Hypokalaemia refers to a condition where the potassium level in the blood is lower than normal. This can lead to various physiological and clinical effects due to the crucial role potassium plays in cellular function, particularly in nerve and muscle cells.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer choice is the one that does not directly correlate with the typical effects of hypokalaemia. Hypokalaemia can cause paralytic ileus due to decreased muscle contraction in the intestines, tetany due to increased excitability of nerves and muscles, orthostatic hypotension due to impaired vascular reflexes, rhabdomyolysis due to muscle cell damage, and prolonged QT interval with tall T waves due to effects on cardiac repolarization.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Paralytic ileus is indeed a complication of hypokalaemia, as it affects the smooth muscle function in the gut.
**Option B:** Tetany can occur due to hypokalaemia, reflecting neuromuscular irritability.
**Option C:** Orthostatic hypotension can be seen in hypokalaemia, related to the body's inability to properly regulate blood pressure in response to changes in posture.
**Option D:** Rhabdomyolysis is associated with severe hypokalaemia, leading to muscle breakdown.
**Option E:** Prolonged QT interval and tall T waves are characteristic electrocardiographic changes in hypokalaemia, indicating a risk for serious arrhythmias.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key point to remember is that hypokalaemia can have profound effects on the cardiovascular system, including the risk of arrhythmias. It's crucial to promptly address and correct potassium levels to prevent these complications.
**Correct Answer:** D. Rhabdomyolysis is not typically caused by hypokalaemia, although it can be associated with hyperkalaemia or other electrolyte imbalances.
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