A IMPORTÂNCIA DO CONHECIMENTO DA HIPERPOTASSEMIA CAUSADO PELO USO DA CARDIOPLEGIA SANGUÍNEA NA CIRURGIA CARDÍACA DURANTE A CIRCULAÇÃO EXTRACORPÓREA.

Hyperkalemia is characterized by elevated serum potassium levels, which results in significant repercussions on cardiac electrical activity, initially detectable on an electrocardiogram (ECG). The first symptom observed is an increase in the amplitude of the T wave, which appears tall, peaked, and symmetrical. As potassium levels increase, these changes can progress to more severe patterns, similar to bundle branch blocks, ventricular premature beats, or tachycardia, with a risk of fusion between the QRS and T wave, configuring a typical electrical aberration. In this context, the electrocardiogram has established itself as an indispensable tool, as it allows rapid and noninvasive monitoring and recording of cardiac electrical activity. Cardioplegia, in turn, is an essential technique in cardiac surgeries with extracorporeal circulation, used to induce controlled cardiac arrest through the administration of a potassium-rich cardioplegic solution. This solution reduces myocardial oxygen consumption and protects against ischemic injury, allowing the surgeon to perform the procedure safely. Therefore, understanding the relationship between hyperkalemia, cardioplegia, and electrocardiographic changes is essential to ensuring safety during cardiac surgeries, reinforcing the importance of continuous monitoring and appropriate clinical management.