The nurse assessing a client hospitalized with a diagnosis of hypoparathyroidism notes positive Trousseau's and Chvostek's signs. The nurse determines that these findings most indicate which electrolyte imbalance?
Hypernatremia
Hypermagnesemia
Hypocalcemia
Hypokalemia
The Correct Answer is C
A. Hypernatremia, an elevated sodium level, does not cause Trousseau's or Chvostek's signs.
B. Hypermagnesemia, an elevated magnesium level, is not associated with positive Trousseau's and Chvostek's signs.
C. Hypocalcemia, a low calcium level, is commonly associated with positive Trousseau's and Chvostek's signs. Trousseau's sign is a carpopedal spasm induced by inflating a blood pressure cuff, while Chvostek's sign is facial twitching in response to tapping over the facial nerve. Both are indicative of neuromuscular irritability due to low calcium levels.
D. Hypokalemia, a low potassium level, does not cause these specific signs and is associated with different clinical manifestations.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Hyperparathyroidism often leads to elevated levels of calcium in the blood, which can result in joint and bone pain due to the excessive breakdown of bone tissue (osteoporosis).
B. Tremors are not typically associated with hyperparathyroidism; they are more commonly linked to conditions like hyperthyroidism or neurological disorders.
C. Swelling in the legs is more commonly associated with conditions like heart failure or venous insufficiency, not hyperparathyroidism.
D. Diarrhea is not a common symptom of hyperparathyroidism; this condition is more likely to cause constipation due to hypercalcemia.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Hypernatremia, an elevated sodium level, does not cause Trousseau's or Chvostek's signs.
B. Hypermagnesemia, an elevated magnesium level, is not associated with positive Trousseau's and Chvostek's signs.
C. Hypocalcemia, a low calcium level, is commonly associated with positive Trousseau's and Chvostek's signs. Trousseau's sign is a carpopedal spasm induced by inflating a blood pressure cuff, while Chvostek's sign is facial twitching in response to tapping over the facial nerve. Both are indicative of neuromuscular irritability due to low calcium levels.
D. Hypokalemia, a low potassium level, does not cause these specific signs and is associated with different clinical manifestations.
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