A client has a total serum calcium level of 7.0 mg/dL (1.75 mmol/L). Based on this information, which action is most important for the nurse to include while measuring the client's vital signs?

Reference Range:

Total Calcium (9 to 10.5 mg/dL (2.25 to 2.62 mmol/L)]

Measure blood pressure in both arms.

Assess skin turgor for elasticity.

Observe the skin for signs of bruising.

Note the rhythm of the pulse.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

A.   While it is generally good practice to measure blood pressure in both arms for a comprehensive assessment, this is not the primary concern with hypocalcemia. Hypocalcemia primarily affects neuromuscular and cardiovascular systems, so while blood pressure monitoring is important, it does not directly address the critical symptoms associated with low calcium levels.
B.   Assessing skin turgor is a useful practice for evaluating hydration status and skin elasticity but is not specifically related to the management or symptoms of hypocalcemia. In hypocalcemia, skin changes are not the most relevant concern compared to neuromuscular symptoms.
C.   Hypocalcemia can increase the risk of bleeding and bruising due to impaired blood clotting mechanisms. Monitoring for bruising can be an important aspect of assessing the effects of low calcium levels on the client’s hemostatic function. Bruising can be a direct indicator of the impact of hypocalcemia on blood coagulation and is relevant to the clinical management of the condition.
D.   Hypocalcemia can affect cardiac function, potentially leading to changes in heart rhythm and rate. Monitoring the rhythm of the pulse is crucial, as it can help identify arrhythmias or other cardiac disturbances associated with low calcium levels.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. This instruction is not recommended because adding the second portion of the feeding before the syringe is empty can lead to inconsistent feeding rates and potential complications, such as overloading the stomach with too much formula at once.
B. Flushing the GT with water between portions of feeding is a good practice to prevent clogging and to ensure that all formula is delivered. However, 25 mL of water is generally not enough; standard practice typically involves using 30 to 60 mL of water for effective flushing. This option is close but not as specific as the recommended volume.
C. Raising the syringe barrel can increase the flow rate of the feeding, but this approach should be used with caution. Rapid flow can cause gastrointestinal discomfort or cramping. The primary focus should be on ensuring proper flushing and administration rather than manipulating the flow rate in this way.
D. This option is the best practice because flushing the GT with 50 mL of water between portions of the feeding helps to clear any remaining formula from the tube and prevents clogging. Proper flushing also helps ensure that the entire dose of formula is delivered and maintains tube patency.

A. Infection. B. Deep vein thrombosis. C. Pulmonary embolism. D. Fat emboli.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. Infection in the lower leg could cause localized redness, swelling, warmth, and possibly pain. However, the presence of these symptoms alone is not as specific to infection, especially without additional symptoms like fever or purulent discharge.
B. Deep vein thrombosis is a condition where a blood clot forms in a deep vein, commonly in the legs. The symptoms of DVT include swelling (edema), redness (erythema), warmth, and sometimes pain in the affected leg. Given that the client has paresis on one side and is likely less mobile, the risk of DVT increases.
C. A pulmonary embolism occurs when a blood clot (often from the legs) travels to the lungs and causes a blockage. While a pulmonary embolism is a serious complication of DVT, the findings of localized edema and erythema in the leg are more directly associated with DVT itself rather than the secondary complication of a pulmonary embolism.
D. Fat emboli typically occur after fractures or trauma and lead to fat droplets entering the bloodstream and causing blockages in the lungs, brain, or skin. The classic symptoms include respiratory distress, neurological symptoms, and petechial rash.

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A client has a total serum calcium level of 7.0 mg/dL (1.75 mmol/L). Based on this information, which action is most important for the nurse to include while measuring the client's vital signs? Reference Range: Total Calcium (9 to 10.5 mg/dL (2.25 to 2.62 mmol/L)]

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

An older client is hospitalized following an embolic stroke resulting in right-sided paresis. Three days after admission, the nurse notes edema and erythema to the right lower leg. These findings should alert the nurse to which possible condition?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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A client has a total serum calcium level of 7.0 mg/dL (1.75 mmol/L). Based on this information, which action is most important for the nurse to include while measuring the client's vital signs?

Reference Range:

Total Calcium (9 to 10.5 mg/dL (2.25 to 2.62 mmol/L)]