AEMCA Practice Exam

What condition can occur as a result of kidney failure?

1. Hyperkalemia

2. Diabetes

3. Asthma

4. Epilepsy

The correct answer is: Hyperkalemia

Hyperkalemia, which refers to elevated levels of potassium in the blood, is a condition that can occur as a result of kidney failure. The kidneys are primarily responsible for filtering excess potassium from the bloodstream. When they fail, their ability to excrete potassium diminishes, leading to an accumulation in the body. This is significant because high potassium levels can interfere with heart function and potentially lead to life-threatening arrhythmias. The other options presented do not have a direct connection to kidney failure in the same manner. Diabetes is a metabolic disorder typically related to issues with insulin production or action, asthma is a respiratory condition characterized by airway inflammation, and epilepsy is a neurological disorder that involves recurrent seizures. While kidney failure can be related to complications from diabetes or other health conditions, it does not directly cause diabetes, asthma, or epilepsy. Thus, hyperkalemia stands out as the most directly associated condition resulting from kidney failure.