A nurse is collecting data from a client who has hypocalcemia.
Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

Choice A rationale:

Changing soiled linens daily is important, but it is not the most effective way to prevent the spread of pathogens.

Choice B rationale:

Hand hygiene is the single most effective way to prevent the spread of pathogens. It should be performed before and after every client interaction, before and after any procedure, and after any contact with potentially infectious material.

Choice C rationale:

Discarding used syringes in appropriate containers is important for safety, but it does not directly prevent the spread of pathogens.

Choice D rationale:

Properly disposing of contaminated equipment is important, but hand hygiene is more effective at preventing the spread of pathogens.

Choice A rationale:

Decreased deep-tendon reflexes are not a common symptom of hypocalcemia. Normal calcium levels in the blood range from 8.5 to 10.2 mg/dL1.

Choice B rationale:

Skeletal muscle weakness is a symptom of hypercalcemia, not hypocalcemia.

Choice C rationale:

Hypoactive bowel sounds are associated with hypercalcemia, not hypocalcemia.

Choice D rationale:

Tingling of the lips is a common symptom of hypocalcemia. This occurs due to increased excitability of the nerves.