Which laboratory data would alert the nurse to the possibility of hypercalcemia in the patient recently diagnosed with osteoporosis?
An increased serum calcitonin level.
An increased number of osteocytes.
Elevated plasma magnesium levels.
An increased parathyroid hormone (PTH) level.
The Correct Answer is D
A. An increased serum calcitonin level: Calcitonin is involved in lowering blood calcium levels, so increased levels would not indicate hypercalcemia but rather a compensatory mechanism to lower calcium.
B. An increased number of osteocytes: Osteocytes are bone cells, and their number is not a direct indicator of hypercalcemia. Osteoclasts and osteoblasts are more relevant to bone metabolism.
C. Elevated plasma magnesium levels: Elevated magnesium levels are not specifically indicative of hypercalcemia and can be related to other conditions.
D. An increased parathyroid hormone (PTH) level: Hypercalcemia can be associated with increased PTH levels, particularly in primary hyperparathyroidism. Elevated PTH can lead to increased calcium release from bones.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Manifests as neurofibrillary tangles and amyloid plaques that cause a disruption of brain impulses: Alzheimer's disease is characterized by the accumulation of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles in the brain, leading to disrupted neural communication.
B. Is an inherited disorder that, most often, begins before the age of fifty: While there are inherited forms of Alzheimer's (early-onset), most cases are sporadic and occur after age 65.
C. Can be caused by increased cerebral levels of acetylcholine: Alzheimer's disease is associated with decreased levels of acetylcholine, not increased levels.
D. Causes unusual sensory sensations such as numbness and shooting pain (paresthesia): Paresthesia is not a typical symptom of Alzheimer's disease; it is more related to neurological or peripheral nerve disorders.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Adherence to a low-fat diet: The patient likely experienced a transient ischemic attack (TIA), which is a warning sign for future strokes. A low-fat diet is recommended to help manage cholesterol and reduce the risk of atherosclerosis and stroke.
B. The administration of clot-busting drugs: Clot-busting drugs (thrombolytics) are used in the acute management of a stroke, but this patient’s symptoms resolved spontaneously, and the focus is on prevention.
C. Reporting any signs of heat or cold intolerance: This is unrelated to the prevention of stroke or management after a TIA.
D. Avoiding red wine and chocolate: While moderation in alcohol and certain foods is generally advised for overall health, this specific recommendation does not address the primary concern of preventing future cerebrovascular events.
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