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A patient in the emergency room was admitted due to hypertension with a blood pressure of 160/100 mmHg. Blood test shows potassium level is at 5.5mEq/L, calcium is 9.2 mg/dl, sodium is 139 and ECG results shows irregular cardiac rhythm. What imbalance is the patient experiencing?

Explanation

•Normal potassium ranges from 3.5 - 5.0 mEq/L. This patient is hyperkalemic and suffering from cardiac arrhythmias as a result.

•Normal calcium ranges from 9 - 10.5 mg/dl.

•Normal sodium ranges from 135 - 145 mEq/L.

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