When taking the blood pressure (BP) on the right arm of a patient with severe acute pancreatitis, the nurse notices carpal spasms of the patient's right hand. Which action should the nurse take next?
a. Ask the patient about any arm pain.
b. Retake the patient's blood pressure.
c. Check the calcium level in the chart.
d. Notify the health care provider immediately.
c. Check the calcium level in the chart.
The patient with acute pancreatitis is at risk for hypocalcemia, and the assessment data indicate a positive Trousseau's sign. The health care provider should be notified after the nurse checks the patient's calcium level. There is no indication that the patient needs to have the BP rechecked or that there is any arm pain.
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