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 A
Explanation
A. Paralytic ileus: Paralytic ileus is a common complication of major abdominal surgery and prolonged bed rest. It is a temporary cessation of normal bowel peristalsis, leading to a lack of bowel sounds and the inability to pass gas or stool.
B. Esophageal dysplasia: This condition refers to abnormal changes in the cells of the esophagus, typically related to chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), not prolonged bed rest.
C. Gastroparesis: This is a condition in which the stomach cannot empty itself of food in a normal fashion, often related to diabetes or damage to the vagus nerve. It is not a direct result of prolonged bed rest.
D. Paralytic ileum: This should refer to "paralytic ileus."
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Ischemia of the brain tissue is causing cellular injury, swelling, and malfunction of the contralateral side: Hemiparesis occurs on the side opposite to the brain lesion due to the crossing (decussation) of motor pathways.
B. The functioning of the right cranial nerve controlling facial movement is compromised by cerebral edema: While facial nerve involvement can cause drooping, the hemiparesis suggests a central (brain) rather than peripheral issue.
C. The sensorimotor tracts leading from the brain to the body decussate and control the arm and leg on the same side as the lesion: This is incorrect because the tracts control the contralateral side of the body.
D. The corticospinal tracts leading from the brain to the body decussate and control the ipsilateral arm and leg: This is incorrect; the corticospinal tracts control the contralateral side.
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