A nurse is collecting data from a client who has a calcium level of 8 mg/dL. Which of the following manifestations should the nurse expect?
A.
Tetany
B.
Constipation
C.
Negative Chvostek sign
D.
Elevated blood pressure
The Correct answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is A. Tetany.
Explanation:
A calcium level of 8 mg/dL is considered low, as normal serum calcium levels typically range from 8.5 to 10.5 mg/dL. Hypocalcemia, or low calcium levels, can lead to various clinical manifestations due to the essential role that calcium plays in neuromuscular excitability, muscle contraction, and other physiological functions.
One of the hallmark signs of hypocalcemia is tetany, which refers to increased neuromuscular excitability leading to involuntary muscle contractions and spasms. Tetany can manifest in several ways, including:
- Twitching or spasms: Particularly in the hands and feet, known as carpopedal spasms.
- Trousseau’s sign: A positive response to inflating a blood pressure cuff, which causes spasms in the hand.
- Chvostek’s sign: Tapping on the facial nerve just in front of the ear can provoke twitching of the facial muscles on the same side.
In contrast, the other options presented are less consistent with hypocalcemia:
- B. Constipation: While some patients with hypercalcemia may experience constipation, this is not a common manifestation of low calcium levels.
- C. Negative Chvostek sign: A negative Chvostek sign indicates normal calcium levels. In hypocalcemia, this sign would be positive.
- D. Elevated blood pressure: Hypocalcemia is not typically associated with elevated blood pressure. In fact, some studies suggest that low calcium levels may be linked to hypotension rather than hypertension.
Thus, when assessing a client with a calcium level of 8 mg/dL, the nurse should expect to see signs of tetany due to the increased excitability of nerves and muscles resulting from low calcium levels. Identifying and addressing hypocalcemia promptly is critical in preventing more serious complications such as seizures or cardiac issues.