What condition can occur from rapid intravenous administration of potassium?

Rapid intravenous administration of potassium can lead to cardiac arrest due to the significant effect that elevated potassium levels have on the heart's electrical activity. Potassium plays a crucial role in maintaining the normal function of cardiac myocytes (heart muscle cells) by contributing to the resting membrane potential and the generation of action potentials. When potassium levels rise too quickly, it can lead to hyperkalemia—a condition characterized by an excessive concentration of potassium in the blood.

High potassium levels can disrupt the normal electrical conduction in the heart, leading to arrhythmias, which can become severe and culminate in cardiac arrest if not addressed promptly. The heart relies on a delicate balance of electrolytes, including potassium, to function correctly; therefore, any rapid changes in potassium concentrations can have dire consequences for cardiac health.

Conditions like dehydration, hypernatremia, and hypocalcemia, while relevant in the context of electrolyte balance, do not directly result from the rapid infusion of potassium itself, making them less applicable to this specific scenario.