Which laboratory data would alert the nurse to the possibility of hypercalcemia in the patient recently diagnosed with osteoporosis?
An increased serum calcitonin level.
An increased number of osteocytes.
Elevated plasma magnesium levels.
An increased parathyroid hormone (PTH) level.
The Correct Answer is D
A. An increased serum calcitonin level: Calcitonin is involved in lowering blood calcium levels, so increased levels would not indicate hypercalcemia but rather a compensatory mechanism to lower calcium.
B. An increased number of osteocytes: Osteocytes are bone cells, and their number is not a direct indicator of hypercalcemia. Osteoclasts and osteoblasts are more relevant to bone metabolism.
C. Elevated plasma magnesium levels: Elevated magnesium levels are not specifically indicative of hypercalcemia and can be related to other conditions.
D. An increased parathyroid hormone (PTH) level: Hypercalcemia can be associated with increased PTH levels, particularly in primary hyperparathyroidism. Elevated PTH can lead to increased calcium release from bones.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Low T4, High TSH: This pattern is seen in primary hypothyroidism, where the thyroid gland is underactive.
B. Low T4, high calcitonin: This choice is unrelated to the typical lab findings in Graves' disease. Calcitonin levels are not commonly assessed in thyroid disorders like Graves' disease.
C. High PSA and estrogen levels: PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) and estrogen levels are unrelated to Graves' disease, which is an autoimmune hyperthyroid condition.
D. High T4, low TSH: Graves' disease is characterized by hyperthyroidism, where T4 (thyroxine) levels are elevated, and TSH (Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone) levels are suppressed due to the negative feedback mechanism.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Vertigo and bilateral loss of the pupillary light reflex: Vertigo can occur with cerebellar involvement, but loss of the pupillary light reflex is more associated with brainstem damage.
B. Nuchal rigidity and positive Kernig's sign: These are signs of meningitis, not a cerebellar stroke.
C. Report of falling down, nausea, and vomiting: These symptoms can occur with cerebellar strokes, but they are nonspecific and can be seen in other conditions as well.
D. Difficulty speaking and loss of coordination: The cerebellum is responsible for coordination, and a cerebellar stroke can lead to ataxia (loss of coordination) and dysarthria (difficulty speaking).
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.