A postoperative patient is diagnosed with fluid volume overload. What should the nurse expect to assess in this patient?

Choice A: Hypertension is incorrect because it is not a common complication of hypocalcemia, which is a low level of calcium in the blood. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, can be caused by conditions such as kidney disease, diabetes, or preeclampsia.

Choice B: Drug toxicity is incorrect because it is not directly related to hypocalcemia, although some drugs can affect the calcium level in the blood. For example, loop diuretics can increase the urinary excretion of calcium, while bisphosphonates can inhibit the bone resorption of calcium.

Choice C: Other electrolyte disturbances is correct because hypocalcemia can be associated with other imbalances of electrolytes, such as magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium. For example, hypomagnesemia, or low magnesium level, can impair the secretion and action of parathyroid hormone, which regulates calcium balance.

Hyperphosphatemia, or high phosphorus level, can bind to calcium and lower its availability in the blood. Hypokalemia, or low potassium level, can increase the renal excretion of calcium.

Choice D: Visual disturbances is incorrect because it is not a typical manifestation of hypocalcemia, although severe hypocalcemia can affect the nervous system and cause confusion, hallucinations, or seizures. Visual disturbances can be caused by conditions such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, or diabetic retinopathy.

Choice A: Limit intake of canned soups is correct because canned soups are high in sodium and can increase blood pressure and fluid retention. The nurse should advise the client to choose low-sodium or homemade soups instead.

Choice B: Choose botled salad dressings is incorrect because botled salad dressings are also high in sodium and can have added sugars and fats. The nurse should advise the client to make their own salad dressings with vinegar, oil, herbs, and spices.

Choice C: Choose diet sodas over botled water is incorrect because diet sodas are not a healthy alternative to water. Diet sodas contain artificial sweeteners, caffeine, and phosphoric acid, which can affect the body's pH balance and calcium absorption. The nurse should advise the client to drink plain water or flavored water with natural ingredients.

Choice D: Replace processed meats with fresh meat products is correct because processed meats such as bacon, ham, sausage, and hot dogs are high in sodium and preservatives. The nurse should advise the client to choose fresh meat products such as chicken, turkey, fish, or lean beef.

Choice E: Read labels on foods before eating is correct because reading labels can help the client identify the sodium content and other ingredients in foods. The nurse should advise the client to look for foods that have less than 140 mg of sodium per serving and avoid foods that have salt, sodium, or monosodium glutamate (MSG) in the ingredient list.