A patient has a serum calcium level of 11.0 mg/dL. The nurse realizes that which of the following is contributing to this patient's elevated calcium level?

1. diagnosis of hypoparathyroidism
2. thiazide diuretics and immobility
3. diagnosis of acute pancreatitis
4. low serum magnesium level


2

Rationale: Hypercalcemia is seen in patients with malignancies in addition to those who are prescribed thiazide diuretics. It develops from prolonged immobility, hyperparathyroidism and thyrotoxicosis. The diagnosis of hypoparathyroidism and acute pancreatitis are associated with hypocalcemia. A low serum magnesium level is also seen in hypocalcemia.

Nursing

You might also like to view...

The physician orders a urinalysis and urine culture. To obtain the urine specimen, the nurse would first instruct the patient about

a. collecting the urine for a 24 hour period. b. obtaining a clean-catch specimen. c. bringing in an early morning specimen. d. limiting fluid intake to concentrate the urine.

Nursing

While providing education to a primiparous woman regarding the normal changes of pregnancy, it is important for the nurse to explain that the uterus undergoes irregular contractions. These are known as _____________ contractions

Fill in the blank(s) with correct word

Nursing

Self-examination of the male genitalia:

a. should be restricted to adults with a prior cryptorchidism. b. should be performed while bathing. c. starts with palpation and then inspection. d. should be performed yearly.

Nursing

Magnesium deficiency may occur in association with

a. lactation. b. type 1 diabetes. c. excessive vomiting and diarrhea. d. dehydration attributable to heat exposure.

Nursing