A nurse is collecting data from a client who has a sodium level of 155 mEq/L. Which of the following manifestations should the nurse expect?

Choice A rationale:

Hypertension is not typically associated with low calcium levels. Hypertension is more commonly linked to issues with blood pressure regulation and not calcium levels.

Choice B rationale:

Diaphoresis (excessive sweating) is not a direct symptom of low calcium levels. Low calcium can lead to muscle cramps and tetany, but not sweating.

Choice C rationale:

Muscle tetany is a common manifestation of low calcium levels (hypocalcemia). It results from increased neuromuscular excitability, causing muscle spasms and contractions. A calcium level of 7 mg/dL is below the normal range, and this client is at risk for muscle tetany.

Choice D rationale:

Increased thirst is not a typical symptom of low calcium levels. Symptoms of hypocalcemia are primarily related to neuromuscular and cardiovascular changes, such as muscle tetany and cardiac arrhythmias.

Choice A rationale:

Cool, clammy skin is not a typical manifestation of hypernatremia (high sodium levels). Hypernatremia is characterized by an excess of sodium in the blood, which typically leads to symptoms such as thirst, dry mucous membranes, and decreased skin turgor. Cool, clammy skin is more often associated with conditions like shock or hypoglycemia.

Choice B rationale:

Increased salivation is not a common manifestation of hypernatremia. Instead, hypernatremia often leads to signs of dehydration, including dry mouth and decreased salivation.

Choice C rationale:

Hypertension is not a direct manifestation of hypernatremia. Hypernatremia can cause increased blood pressure, but it is not one of the typical clinical signs of hypernatremia. Hypertension is more commonly associated with conditions like high sodium intake, kidney disease, or primary hypertension.

Choice D rationale:

A decreased level of consciousness is a significant manifestation of hypernatremia. Elevated sodium levels in the blood can lead to cellular dehydration, affecting brain cells and resulting in neurological symptoms such as confusion, lethargy, and decreased consciousness. Severe hypernatremia can even lead to seizures and coma. .