A review of a patient's laboratory test results indicates that the patient's serum calcium is 14.8 mg/dL. The nurse determines that which factors may predispose the patient to this condition? (Select all that apply.)
a. Hyperparathyroidism
b. Cushing's syndrome
c. Osteoporosis
d. Use of thiazide diuretics
e. Cancer
A, D, E
The upper limit for a normal serum calcium level is 10 mg/dL. The patient's laboratory results demonstrate hypercalcemia, which most often results from cancer, hyperparathyroidism, vitamin D intoxication, sarcoidosis, and use of thiazide diuretics.
In Cushing's syndrome the serum calcium is low.
Osteoporosis is characterized by low bone mass, altered bone architecture, and increased bone fragility. Adequate calcium and vitamin D (for absorption of calcium) are needed to maximize bone growth in early life and maintain bone integrity in later life. Nothing suggests that the pa-tient is taking calcium supplements.
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