In which patient will the nurse expect to see a positive Chvostek sign?
A 24-year-old adult admitted for chronic alcohol abuse
A 75-year-old patient admitted for a broken hip related to osteoporosis
A 50-year-old patient admitted for acute hyperparathyroidism
A 7-year-old child admitted for severe burns
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Chronic alcohol abuse may cause hypomagnesemia, which can mimic hypocalcemia symptoms, but a positive Chvostek sign is specific to low calcium. Alcoholism alone is less likely to cause this sign without concurrent hypocalcemia, making this choice incorrect.
Choice B reason: Osteoporosis in a 75-year-old involves bone density loss but does not typically cause hypocalcemia or a positive Chvostek sign. Calcium levels are usually normal unless other conditions exist, making this choice incorrect for the expected finding.
Choice C reason: Acute hyperparathyroidism can lead to hypocalcemia after parathyroidectomy or in secondary complications, causing a positive Chvostek sign (facial twitching when tapping the facial nerve). Low calcium triggers this neuromuscular response, making this the correct choice.
Choice D reason: Severe burns cause fluid shifts and potential electrolyte imbalances, but hypocalcemia is not a primary feature. A positive Chvostek sign is less likely without specific calcium depletion, making this choice incorrect for the expected finding.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: A 3-inch needle is too long for most IM injections; 1–1.5 inches is standard for adults. This risks hitting bone or tissue, making this incorrect for safe injection.
Choice B reason: IM injections require a 90-degree angle to reach muscle. A 45-degree angle is for subcutaneous injections, making this incorrect for intramuscular administration technique.
Choice C reason: Aspirating before injecting ensures the needle is not in a blood vessel, preventing intravenous administration. This safety step is standard for IM injections, making it correct.
Choice D reason: Massaging the site can cause medication leakage or tissue damage. Gentle pressure is preferred, making massage incorrect for post-injection care in IM administration.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Administering diphenhydramine treats allergic symptoms but does not address the ongoing transfusion reaction. Stopping the transfusion prevents further allergen exposure, making this a secondary action.
Choice B reason: Stopping the transfusion is the first action, as itching and hives indicate an allergic reaction. Halting the infusion prevents worsening symptoms, like anaphylaxis, making this the priority intervention.
Choice C reason: Notifying the provider is necessary but follows stopping the transfusion. Ceasing the infusion immediately mitigates the reaction, ensuring patient safety, making notification a subsequent step.
Choice D reason: Obtaining vital signs provides data but delays addressing the reaction. Stopping the transfusion halts allergen administration, taking precedence over assessment, making this a secondary action.
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