A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a client and notes a calcium level of 7.2 mg/dL. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
Decreased bowel sounds
Dry, sticky mucous membranes
Hypoactive deep-tendon reflexes
Numbness of extremities
The Correct Answer is D
A. Decreased bowel sounds: Hypocalcemia typically causes increased neuromuscular excitability, which can lead to increased bowel sounds.
B. Dry, sticky mucous membranes: Dry, sticky mucous membranes are more indicative of dehydration or hypernatremia.
C. Hypoactive deep-tendon reflexes: Hypocalcemia usually causes hyperactive deep-tendon reflexes, not hypoactive.
D. Numbness of extremities: Numbness and tingling in the extremities are common symptoms of hypocalcemia due to increased neuromuscular excitability.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Increased salivation: Hypernatremia often causes dry mouth and decreased salivation.
B. Cool, clammy skin: Hypernatremia does not typically cause cool, clammy skin; this is more associated with hypovolemia.
C. Hypertension: While hypertension can occur, it is not as specific as decreased level of consciousness.
D. Decreased level of consciousness: Severe hypernatremia can lead to neurological changes, including decreased level of consciousness. Excess sodium draws water out of cells, leading to dehydration inside the cells, especially in the brain. Decreased brain cell function due to dehydration can manifest as confusion, lethargy, and potentially a decreased level of consciousness in severe cases (coma).
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
not to remove gastric acid but to assess tolerance to feedings.
B. To identify delayed gastric emptying: Measuring gastric residual volume helps identify delayed gastric emptying, which can indicate a risk of aspiration or intolerance to the feeding.
C. To confirm the placement of the NG tube: Tube placement should be confirmed by other means, such as pH testing or X-ray, rather than measuring residual.
D. To determine the client's electrolyte balance: Measuring gastric residual does not provide information about the client's electrolyte balance.
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