The nurse is caring for client who has had partial removal the parathyroid gland. The client reports numbness and tingling of the hands and fingers. Which lab value would the nurse expect to see?
Chloride 112
Calcium 7.5
Potassium 4.0
Calcium 12.1
The Correct Answer is B
A) Chloride 112:
Chloride levels are typically not directly associated with numbness or tingling of the hands and fingers. Elevated chloride levels (greater than 108 mEq/L) may indicate metabolic acidosis, but they would not directly explain the symptoms seen in this client following parathyroidectomy. Therefore, this value is unlikely to be relevant in this scenario.
B) Calcium 7.5:
After the partial removal of the parathyroid glands, the client may experience hypocalcemia, or low calcium levels, due to the reduced production of parathyroid hormone (PTH). PTH helps regulate calcium levels in the blood. When the parathyroid glands are removed or damaged, there may be insufficient PTH to maintain normal calcium levels, leading to hypocalcemia. Symptoms of hypocalcemia include numbness and tingling, especially in the hands and fingers. A calcium level of 7.5 mg/dL is below the normal range (8.5–10.5 mg/dL), indicating hypocalcemia, which is consistent with the patient's symptoms.
C) Potassium 4.0:
A potassium level of 4.0 mEq/L is within the normal range (3.5–5.0 mEq/L) and does not typically cause numbness or tingling. Although potassium imbalances can cause neuromuscular symptoms, they would not be the most likely cause of the symptoms in this case, especially in relation to parathyroidectomy.
D) Calcium 12.1:
A calcium level of 12.1 mg/dL is elevated and would suggest hypercalcemia. Hypercalcemia can cause symptoms like fatigue, confusion, and weakness, but it does not typically cause numbness and tingling in the hands and fingers. Elevated calcium levels are more likely to occur in conditions such as hyperparathyroidism or malignancy, not typically following parathyroid gland removal. Therefore, this is not the expected lab result in this scenario.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Cataracts:
A cloudy, opaque area over the lens of the eye is a classic sign of cataracts. Cataracts occur when the lens of the eye becomes cloudy or opaque, leading to blurry vision and, in some cases, eventual blindness if left untreated. Cataracts typically develop slowly and can be caused by aging, injury, or other conditions like diabetes. Symptoms include difficulty seeing at night, glare, and a decrease in color intensity.
B) Diabetic retinopathy:
Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that affects the blood vessels of the retina. It leads to vision problems such as blurred vision, floaters, and even blindness. However, it is characterized by damage to the retina, not cloudiness or opacity over the lens.
C) Macular degeneration:
Macular degeneration affects the macula, the part of the retina responsible for central vision. It leads to a loss of central vision, causing difficulty with tasks like reading or recognizing faces. There is often blurriness or distortion in the center of the visual field.
D) Glaucoma:
Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that lead to damage to the optic nerve often due to high intraocular pressure. It can result in peripheral vision loss and, if untreated, can lead to blindness. However, glaucoma does not cause a cloudy, opaque lens but rather affects the optic nerve and peripheral vision.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Denial:
Denial is the first stage in Kubler-Ross's model of grief. It typically involves a person having difficulty accepting the reality of their diagnosis or the reality of death. Clients in the denial stage may refuse to acknowledge the seriousness of their condition or may act as if everything is fine despite the obvious signs of illness. The statement “I am ready to update my will” suggests that the client has already accepted the reality of their terminal diagnosis and is preparing for what is to come, which is not characteristic of denial.
B) Acceptance:
Acceptance is the final stage in the Kubler-Ross model of grief. It is marked by coming to terms with the reality of death or a terminal diagnosis. Clients who are in the acceptance stage have typically processed their grief and are ready to make practical decisions, such as updating a will or making arrangements for the end of life. The client’s statement about updating their will reflects an acceptance of their condition and a focus on finalizing matters, which aligns with the stage of acceptance.
C) Anger:
Anger is a stage in the Kubler-Ross model of grief where individuals may feel frustrated, resentful, or upset about their situation. Clients in the anger stage may express feelings of injustice or frustration, often lashing out at others. Since the client is talking about practical matters such as updating their will, this does not indicate the emotional response of anger, which would be more likely to involve blaming others or feeling bitter.
D) Bargaining:
Bargaining is the stage where a person may make deals or promises in an attempt to delay or avoid the reality of their situation. Clients in the bargaining stage may attempt to negotiate with a higher power, themselves, or others, asking for more time or for changes in their circumstances. Since the client’s statement is about accepting the terminal diagnosis and preparing for the future, it is not indicative of bargaining, which often involves a desire for a change or a different outcome.
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