In which patient will the nurse expect to see a positive Chvostek sign?
a. A 7-year-old child admitted for severe burns
b. A 24-year-old adult admitted for chronic alcohol abuse
c. A 50-year-old patient admitted for an acute exacerbation of hyperparathyroidism
d. A 75-year-old patient admitted for a broken hip related to osteoporosis
ANS: B
A positive Chvostek sign is representative of hypocalcemia or hypomagnesemia. Hypomagnesemia is common with alcohol abuse. Hypocalcemia can be brought on by alcohol abuse and pancreatitis (which also can be affected by alcohol consumption). Burn patients frequently experience extracellular fluid volume deficit. Hyperparathyroidism causes hypercalcemia. Immobility is associated with hypercalcemia.
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The nurse is aware that the characteristics of a full-thickness burn include: (Select all that apply.)
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