A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results for four clients. The nurse should recognize which of the following clients has a manifestation of hypoparathyroidism?
A.
A client who has a phosphate of 5.7 mg/dL.
B.
A client who has a calcium of 9.8 mg/dL.
C.
A client who has a vitamin D of 25 ng/mL.
D.
A client who has a magnesium of 1.8 mEq/L.
The nurse should recognize that the client with a phosphate level of 5.7 mg/dL has a manifestation of hypoparathyroidism.
Explanation:
Hypoparathyroidism is characterized by low levels of parathyroid hormone (PTH), which leads to low calcium levels and high phosphate levels in the blood. Therefore, an elevated phosphate level is a key indicator of hypoparathyroidism.
Here’s a breakdown of the options:
A. A client who has a phosphate of 5.7 mg/dL.
This is indicative of hypoparathyroidism. In hypoparathyroidism, phosphate levels are typically elevated due to decreased excretion by the kidneys.
B. A client who has a calcium of 9.8 mg/dL.
This calcium level is within the normal range (approximately 8.5-10.2 mg/dL). Normal calcium levels do not indicate hypoparathyroidism.
C. A client who has a vitamin D of 25 ng/mL.
While vitamin D levels can affect calcium metabolism, a vitamin D level of 25 ng/mL is not directly indicative of hypoparathyroidism. Vitamin D deficiency can contribute to hypocalcemia, but it is not specific to hypoparathyroidism.
D. A client who has a magnesium of 1.8 mEq/L.
This magnesium level is slightly low (normal range is approximately 1.5-2.5 mEq/L). While hypomagnesemia can be associated with various conditions, including those affecting calcium metabolism, it is not a specific indicator of hypoparathyroidism.
Summary: Option A (elevated phosphate level) is the correct manifestation of hypoparathyroidism.