What is one of the initial treatments for increased potassium levels?

Administering IV calcium to stabilize the heart is a critical initial treatment for increased potassium levels, commonly known as hyperkalemia. Elevated potassium levels can lead to dangerous heart rhythms and compromise cardiac function. Calcium is administered because it acts to stabilize the myocardial cell membranes, reducing the risk of arrhythmias associated with high potassium levels. This stabilization is vital in emergency situations, as it helps to mitigate the immediate risks before other treatments can take effect.

While sodium bicarbonate can also be used to shift potassium into cells, its primary role is more related to treating acidosis rather than directly stabilizing cardiac membranes. Dialysis might be necessary in severe cases of hyperkalemia, but it is not typically the first step due to the need for immediate stabilization. Increasing potassium intake would exacerbate the condition rather than alleviate it. Hence, IV calcium is the most appropriate choice for initial management in such scenarios.