Question

Succinylcholine should be avoided in what group of patients to avoid arrhythmia?

a) Patients with hyperkalemia
b) Patients with hypokalemia
c) Patients with hypocalcemia
d) Patients with hypercalcemia

Answer 1

Succinylcholine should be avoided in patients with hyperkalemia because it can exacerbate high potassium levels, leading to fatal heart arrhythmias.

Step-by-step explanation:

Succinylcholine should be avoided in patients with hyperkalemia to avoid arrhythmias. Hyperkalemia, which is an elevated potassium level in the blood, can impair the function of skeletal muscles, the nervous system, and the heart. Conditions such as renal failure, severe dehydration, and Addison's disease can lead to hyperkalemia due to decreased excretion of potassium by the kidneys. When potassium levels are too high, the heart can become weak, flaccid, and may ultimately fail. Succinylcholine, a muscle relaxant, can cause an increase in serum potassium levels, which could exacerbate existing hyperkalemia and lead to fatal arrhythmias.