Nerve and muscle mnemonic

Phases of a neuronal action potential

The mnemonic

Rest, Depolarise, Peak, Repolarise, Hyperpolarise

What each word stands for

  • RestMembrane near K⁺ equilibrium, about −70 mV
  • DepolariseNa⁺ channels open, Na⁺ enters
  • PeakNa⁺ channels inactivate near +30 mV
  • RepolariseK⁺ channels open, K⁺ leaves
  • HyperpolariseK⁺ channels close slowly, brief undershoot

Why it matters clinically

Explains refractory periods and the action of sodium channel blockers.

Where it stops being reliable

It lists phases only; it does not explain channel kinetics in detail.

Teaching aid, still awaiting independent review. Confirm facts in a standard source.

More mnemonics

Common questions

What is the Nerve and muscle mnemonic?

Rest, Depolarise, Peak, Repolarise, Hyperpolarise. It helps you recall: Phases of a neuronal action potential.

What does "Rest" stand for?

Membrane near K⁺ equilibrium, about −70 mV

What does "Depolarise" stand for?

Na⁺ channels open, Na⁺ enters

What does "Peak" stand for?

Na⁺ channels inactivate near +30 mV

What are all the parts of the Rest, Depolarise, Peak, Repolarise, Hyperpolarise mnemonic?

Rest: Membrane near K⁺ equilibrium, about −70 mV; Depolarise: Na⁺ channels open, Na⁺ enters; Peak: Na⁺ channels inactivate near +30 mV; Repolarise: K⁺ channels open, K⁺ leaves; Hyperpolarise: K⁺ channels close slowly, brief undershoot.

Which topic does this mnemonic belong to?

It belongs to Nerve and muscle in Physiology.

Where does this mnemonic stop being reliable?

It lists phases only; it does not explain channel kinetics in detail.

How is this useful clinically?

Explains refractory periods and the action of sodium channel blockers.

How do I make this mnemonic stick?

Say it aloud, write it from memory tomorrow, then again in a week. Then test yourself on a Physiology question about Nerve and muscle.

Is this a standard mnemonic?

It is a teaching aid written or adapted by our team. Some resemble ones students share informally. Check any fact that matters in a standard source.