Which of the following is NOT listed as an underlying cause of bradycardia in the Bradycardia Protocol?

• A. Hyperkalemia
• B. Hypothermia
• C. Hyperglycemia
• D. Hypoxia

Answer: (C)

Bradycardia in this protocol is tied to conditions that directly slow the heart’s electrical system. High potassium levels impair SA/AV node conduction by altering the cardiac cell resting potential, making impulses fire more slowly. Lower body temperature reduces metabolic rate and slows pacemaker activity and conduction. Hypoxia deprives cardiac tissue of oxygen, weakening electrical activity and promoting bradyarrhythmias. Hyperglycemia, on the other hand, does not typically slow the conduction system directly and often presents with tachycardia due to dehydration and sympathetic stimulation. Therefore, hyperglycemia is not listed as an underlying bradycardia cause in this protocol.