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 C
Explanation
A. Peeling of the hands and feet is not a common manifestation of pertussis. This symptom is typically associated with other conditions, such as Kawasaki disease or toxic shock syndrome, rather than an infection caused by Bordetella pertussis.
B. Beefy, red tongue is usually seen in conditions like scarlet fever or certain nutritional deficiencies, such as vitamin B12 deficiency. It is not characteristic of pertussis and does not align with the typical clinical presentation of this respiratory illness.
C. Fever is a common manifestation of pertussis, especially in the early stages. The child may present with a mild to moderate fever as the immune system responds to the infection. Fever can help in distinguishing pertussis from other respiratory illnesses, especially in conjunction with the classic coughing fits.
D. Facial erythema is not typically seen in pertussis. While some flushing may occur during intense coughing episodes, it is not a primary symptom. Pertussis is more characterized by severe coughing fits, the distinctive "whoop" sound during inspiration, and potential vomiting after coughing.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Acute onset of confusion. Dementia is a progressive, chronic condition that develops gradually over time. An acute onset of confusion is more characteristic of delirium, which is a sudden, reversible condition often caused by infections, metabolic imbalances, or medications.
B. Illusions. While individuals with dementia may experience visual misperceptions, true illusions—misinterpretations of real external stimuli—are more commonly associated with delirium or psychiatric disorders. Dementia more often leads to problems with recognition (agnosia) rather than distorted perception.
C. Memory loss that disrupts ADLs. Dementia is characterized by progressive cognitive decline, including memory impairment severe enough to interfere with daily activities such as managing finances, preparing meals, or personal hygiene. As the disease progresses, individuals may struggle with problem-solving, language, and recognizing familiar people or places.
D. Catatonia. Catatonia is a state of motor dysfunction, often seen in severe psychiatric disorders like schizophrenia. While individuals with advanced dementia may become withdrawn or exhibit reduced movement, true catatonia, which involves stupor or repetitive movements, is not a hallmark of dementia.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
