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

Answer and Explanation

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.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Choice D:

The client seems to be more comfortable performing self-administration of insulin: The use of the term “seems” introduces subjectivity, which weakens the clarity and objectivity of the documentation. It’s better to describe specific observations or objective findings. For instance, instead of using “seems,” the nurse could note how the client demonstrated confidence or performed the task with ease, providing concrete evidence of improvement.

A. Heart failure B. Brainstem injury C. Recent weight loss D. Enlarged tonsils

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A) Heart failure:
While heart failure can cause a variety of symptoms, including shortness of breath, fatigue, and nocturnal respiratory disturbances, it is not a direct cause of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). However, heart failure can exacerbate the effects of sleep apnea, particularly in individuals who already have OSA, leading to a condition known as "central sleep apnea with Cheyne-Stokes respiration.

B) Brainstem injury:
Brainstem injury can affect the regulation of breathing and may lead to central sleep apnea, where the brain fails to send the proper signals to the muscles that control breathing. However, brainstem injury does not directly cause obstructive sleep apnea, which is typically caused by physical blockages or obstructions in the upper airway.

C) Recent weight loss:
Recent weight loss is generally not associated with the development of obstructive sleep apnea. In fact, weight loss can sometimes reduce the severity of OSA in overweight or obese individuals. OSA is more commonly associated with excess weight and fat deposits around the neck and throat, which can contribute to airway obstruction during sleep.

D) Enlarged tonsils:
Enlarged tonsils, especially in children, are a well-known cause of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The enlarged tonsils can block the upper airway during sleep, leading to periods of apnea or hypopnea (reduced airflow). This obstruction can result in snoring, choking, and interrupted sleep.

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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?

Nursing Test Bank

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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Explanation

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