Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) Practice Exam

What electrocardiographic finding is associated with hypokalemia?

1. U wave

2. ST segment elevation

3. QT interval prolongation

4. QRS widening

The correct answer is: U wave

The presence of a U wave on the electrocardiogram (ECG) is a notable finding associated with hypokalemia, which is a condition characterized by low levels of potassium in the blood. In hypokalemia, patients may exhibit additional U waves following the T wave. This occurs due to the effects of reduced potassium on cardiac repolarization. Specifically, potassium is critical for normal cardiac muscle function and repolarization; insufficient levels can lead to the delayed repolarization that manifests as U waves. In contrast, the other findings mentioned, such as ST segment elevation is more commonly associated with conditions like myocardial ischemia or injury rather than hypokalemia. QT interval prolongation can occur in various scenarios, including certain medications or electrolyte imbalances beyond just hypokalemia. QRS widening is not directly a hallmark of hypokalemia but rather indicative of intraventricular conduction delays or other significant cardiac concerns. Therefore, the U wave stands out as the characteristic electrocardiographic change associated specifically with hypokalemia.