A nurse is caring for a client who had a total thyroidectomy and a low serum calcium level of 7.4 mg/dL. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
Constipation
Negative Trousseau’s sign
BP of 180/88
Numbness and tingling of the extremities
The Correct Answer is D
A. Constipation: Hypocalcemia causes diarrhea, while hypercalcemia causes constipation.
B. Negative Trousseau’s sign: A positive Trousseau’s sign (carpal spasm during BP cuff inflation) is expected with hypocalcemia.
C. BP of 180/88: Severe hypocalcemia may cause hypotension, not hypertension.
D. Numbness and tingling of the extremities: Hypocalcemia can occur after a total thyroidectomy due to accidental removal or damage to the parathyroid glands. Neuromuscular excitability, including paresthesia (numbness and tingling), tetany, and muscle spasms, are classic signs.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Constipation: Hypocalcemia causes diarrhea, while hypercalcemia causes constipation.
B. Negative Trousseau’s sign: A positive Trousseau’s sign (carpal spasm during BP cuff inflation) is expected with hypocalcemia.
C. BP of 180/88: Severe hypocalcemia may cause hypotension, not hypertension.
D. Numbness and tingling of the extremities: Hypocalcemia can occur after a total thyroidectomy due to accidental removal or damage to the parathyroid glands. Neuromuscular excitability, including paresthesia (numbness and tingling), tetany, and muscle spasms, are classic signs.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Magnesium sulfate: Magnesium sulfate is used for eclampsia and torsades de pointes, not for reducing shivering.
B. Kayexalate: This medication is used for hyperkalemia, not temperature control.
C. Acetaminophen: While useful for fever, acetaminophen does not stop shivering.
D. Diazepam: Shivering increases metabolic demand and body temperature. Diazepam (a benzodiazepine) is a muscle relaxant that helps control shivering in hyperthermic clients.
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