ATI Pathophysiology Practice Exam 2026 – All-in-One Guide to Master Your Exam Success!

Kidney failure often leads to the accumulation of potassium in the body, resulting in hyperkalemia, which is characterized by high potassium levels in the blood. This is primarily due to the kidneys’ impaired ability to excrete potassium, a critical function of these organs. In cases of acute or chronic kidney failure, the urinary excretion of potassium decreases, leading to its retention and an increase in serum levels.

Hyperkalemia can pose significant health risks, including cardiac complications, because potassium plays a vital role in maintaining the electrical balance in cells, particularly in cardiac tissues. Elevated potassium levels can affect heart rhythm and may lead to potentially life-threatening arrhythmias.

Other electrolyte imbalances may occur with kidney failure, such as hyponatremia or hypercalcemia, but hyperkalemia is specifically linked to the retention of potassium due to reduced renal function. It’s essential to regularly monitor potassium levels in patients with kidney failure to prevent associated complications.