The nurse is reviewing laboratory results for a group of patients. Which value should be of most concern to the nurse?

Sodium level 140 mEq/L (136-145 mEq/L)

Magnesium level 1.0 mEq/L (1.3-2.1 mEq/L)

Calcium level 10 mg/dL (9-10.5 mg/dL)

Potassium level 3.5 mEq/L (3.5-5 mEq/L)

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

A. Sodium level 140 mEq/L (136-145 mEq/L): This sodium level is within the normal range and is not of concern.

B. Magnesium level 1.0 mEq/L (1.3-2.1 mEq/L): This value is below the normal range, indicating hypomagnesemia, which can cause serious complications such as arrhythmias, neuromuscular irritability, and seizures. This is the most concerning value.

C. Calcium level 10 mg/dL (9-10.5 mg/dL): This calcium level is within the normal range and is not concerning.

D. Potassium level 3.5 mEq/L (3.5-5 mEq/L): This potassium level is at the low end of normal. While it is something to monitor, it is not immediately concerning compared to hypomagnesemia.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. Cullen's sign: Cullen's sign is a bluish discoloration around the umbilicus, indicating possible internal bleeding or a ruptured ectopic pregnancy. It is unrelated to hypocalcemia.

B. Chvostek's sign: Chvostek's sign is a spasm or twitching of the facial muscles when the facial nerve is tapped, which is a classic sign of hypocalcemia due to low calcium levels affecting neuromuscular function.

C. Brudzinski's sign: Brudzinski's sign involves involuntary flexion of the knees and hips when the neck is flexed, indicative of meningitis. It is unrelated to hypocalcemia.

D. Kernig's sign: Kernig's sign involves resistance to leg extension when the hip is flexed and is indicative of meningitis. It is not associated with hypocalcemia.

A. Skeletal muscle weakness B. Decreased deep-tendon reflexes C. Tingling of the lips D. Hypoactive bowel sounds

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. Skeletal muscle weakness: This is more commonly seen with hypercalcemia, not hypocalcemia. Hypocalcemia typically causes neuromuscular irritability, which manifests as muscle spasms rather than weakness.

B. Decreased deep-tendon reflexes: This is more commonly seen with hypercalcemia. Hypocalcemia typically increases neuromuscular irritability and can cause hyperactive reflexes.

C. Tingling of the lips: This is a classic sign of hypocalcemia, as low calcium levels can lead to neuromuscular excitability, which can cause sensations like tingling (paresthesia) around the lips and fingers.

D. Hypoactive bowel sounds: Hypocalcemia typically increases bowel motility, which can lead to hyperactive bowel sounds, not hypoactive bowel sounds.

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The nurse is reviewing laboratory results for a group of patients. Which value should be of most concern to the nurse?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is assisting with the care of a client who has hypocalcemia. For which of the following signs should the nurse monitor?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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