Which GI symptom is associated with hypokalemia due to decreased motility?

Study for the ATI Fundamentals 5 Test. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question comes with explanations and hints. Ace your exam!

Multiple Choice

Which GI symptom is associated with hypokalemia due to decreased motility?

Explanation:
Low potassium slows the electrical activity and contractility of GI smooth muscle, so peristalsis becomes weaker and intestinal content moves more slowly. That decreased motility leads to constipation, which is the GI symptom tied to hypokalemia in this context. Diarrhea would mean increased motility, vomiting isn’t a direct result of reduced motility from low potassium, and GI bleeding is unrelated to potassium’s effect on motility. So constipation is the best choice.

Low potassium slows the electrical activity and contractility of GI smooth muscle, so peristalsis becomes weaker and intestinal content moves more slowly. That decreased motility leads to constipation, which is the GI symptom tied to hypokalemia in this context. Diarrhea would mean increased motility, vomiting isn’t a direct result of reduced motility from low potassium, and GI bleeding is unrelated to potassium’s effect on motility. So constipation is the best choice.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy