STAT ECG Diagnoses: the value of ECGs in acute neurological emergencies

ECG Weekly Workout with Dr. Amal Mattu


HPI

A 54-year-old male presented to the emergency department with inability to walk for 3 days s/p appendectomy. He reports feeling ill and generally weak. He denies abdominal pain, fever, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.  He is found to have generalized marked weakness, hyporeflexia, urinary retention, and a sensory deficit below  the T10 level. The following ECG is obtained:

Before watching this week’s video, ask yourself these questions:

    1. What ECG abnormalities do you notice?
    2. What is the most likely cause of the patient’s symptoms?
    3. How would you treat this patient?