The nurse is caring for a child with hypoparathyroidism who demonstrates a carpal spasm when pressure is applied to the upper arm. Which laboratory value should the nurse review?
Potassium.
Chloride.
Sodium.
Calcium.
The Correct Answer is D
Hypoparathyroidism is a disorder in which the parathyroid glands produce insufficient amounts of parathyroid hormone, which regulates calcium and phosphorus levels in the body. In hypoparathyroidism, there is a decreased level of calcium in the blood, which can result in carpal spasm or tetany when pressure is applied to the upper arm.
Therefore, the nurse should review the child's calcium level (D) to determine if it is within the normal range. Low calcium levels can cause muscle spasms, seizures, and cardiac arrhythmias. Hypocalcemia may also result in other symptoms such as numbness, tingling, and muscle cramps.
Potassium (A), chloride (B), and sodium (C) are electrolytes that play important roles in various physiological processes in the body, but they are not directly related to the development of carpal spasm in a child with hypoparathyroidism. While hypokalemia (low potassium) or hyponatremia (low sodium) can cause muscle weakness or cramps, these conditions are not typically associated with carpal spasm in hypoparathyroidism.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
At the age of 3, children should be able to speak in simple sentences with a minimum of four words. This is a normal developmental milestone for this age group. Choices B, C, and D are not appropriate developmental milestones for speech and language skills for a 3-year-old child.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
When advising a new mother on caring for a child with croup, the telephone triage nurse should prioritize concern for difficulty swallowing secretions. This symptom can indicate that the child's airway is becoming obstructed and requires immediate medical attention. A fever of 101.0°F (38.3°C) is a common symptom of croup and can be managed at home with antipyretics. Crying often when nursing is not a specific symptom of croup and may have other causes. A barking cough, worse at night, is a characteristic symptom of croup and can be managed at home with humidified air and hydration.

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