A nurse is monitoring a client who was admitted for hypocalcemia. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
Positive Chvostek's sign
Hypotension
Confusion
Positive Babinski reflex
The Correct Answer is A
A. Positive Chvostek's sign. Hypocalcemia increases neuromuscular excitability, leading to involuntary twitching of facial muscles when the facial nerve is tapped. This sign is a well-known indicator of calcium deficiency and reflects heightened nerve sensitivity.
B. Hypotension. While severe hypocalcemia can affect cardiovascular function, hypotension is not a primary or consistent finding. More commonly, calcium imbalances affect muscle contractions rather than directly causing low blood pressure.
C. Confusion. Hypocalcemia can cause neurological symptoms, but confusion is more common in severe or prolonged cases. Early manifestations are usually neuromuscular, such as tetany or muscle cramps, rather than cognitive impairment.
D. Positive Babinski reflex. This reflex is associated with upper motor neuron dysfunction and neurological disorders rather than electrolyte imbalances like hypocalcemia. Calcium deficiency primarily affects peripheral nerves and muscle excitability.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Pivotal Joint (Radius-Ulnar Joint) –A pivot joint allows for rotation around a single axis. The joint between the radius and ulna at the elbow allows the forearm to rotate (pronation/supination). This is not a ball-and-socket joint because it does not allow movement in multiple planes.
B. A ball-and-socket joint allows for the greatest range of motion in multiple directions, including flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, and rotation. Examples are the hip joint (femur-acetabulum) and shoulder joint (humerus-glenoid cavity).
C. A hinge joint allows movement in only one plane (like a door hinge) with flexion and extension. Examples are the knee joint (tibia-femur) and elbow joint (humerus-ulna) function as hinge joints. It is not a ball-and-socket joint because it does not allow rotation or movement in multiple planes.
D. A condyloid (ellipsoidal) joint allows movement in two planes (flexion/extension and abduction/adduction), but no rotation. Examples are the wrist joint (radiocarpal joint) allows side-to-side and up-and-down movements but lacks full rotation.
Correct Answer is {"dropdown-group-1":"A","dropdown-group-2":"B"}
Explanation
Rationale for Correct Options:
- Late decelerations on fetal heart rate (FHR) – First Priority
Late decelerations are a sign of uteroplacental insufficiency, meaning the fetus is not receiving adequate oxygen. This is the most urgent concern because prolonged fetal distress can lead to hypoxia and acidosis, increasing the risk of complications such as stillbirth or emergency cesarean birth. Nursing Actions: Reposition the client to left lateral position to improve placental perfusion. Administer oxygen at 10 L/min via a non-rebreather mask. Increase IV fluids to improve maternal circulation. Stop oxytocin if it's being used, as it may be causing excessive contractions. Notify the provider immediately for further interventions, such as potential intrauterine resuscitation or emergent delivery.
- Positive Group B streptococcus (GBS) status – Second Priority
The client tested positive for GBS, a bacterial infection that can be transmitted to the newborn during birth, leading to neonatal sepsis, pneumonia, or meningitis. While this is a significant concern, it is secondary to the immediate fetal distress from late decelerations. Nursing Actions: Administer IV antibiotics (penicillin G or an alternative) as ordered to prevent neonatal infection. Monitor for signs of infection in the newborn after delivery.
Rationale for Incorrect Options:
- Severe back pain rated 10/10 – Pain management is important, but fetal distress takes precedence over maternal discomfort.
- Restlessness and irritability – These could indicate maternal distress or labor progression, but they are not as urgent as fetal oxygenation.
- Increasing contraction intensity and frequency – This is expected as labor progresses but is not immediately life-threatening.
- Fatigue and emotional distress – While support is essential, it is not a priority over fetal well-being or preventing neonatal infection.
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