Effects of Calcium Abnormalities on the Electrocardiogram (EKG) Mnemonic

This is a mnemonic for the effects of hypocalcemia and hypercalcemia that are seen on the EKG. This is a frequently tested topic on boards, and a common question to be asked during the clinical rotation years as well.

HypOcalcemia causes a prOlonged QT interval
HypERcalcemia causes a shortER QT interval

Pretty easy to remember! Just match the vowel sounds.

Sources:

Goltzman, D. Clinical manifestations of hypocalcemia. In: UpToDate, Basow, DS (Ed), UpToDate, Waltham, MA, 2011. 

Shane, E. Clinical manifestations of hypercalcemia. In: UpToDate, Basow, DS (Ed), UpToDate, Waltham, MA, 2011.