A terminally ill cancer patient with metastasis to the bone has been admitted with elevated calcium levels (hypercalcemic crisis). The patient is very lethargic and exhibiting muscle flaccidity. The nurse should be prepared to administer
(Select all that apply.)
A)
pamidronate, a bisphosphonate.
B)
intravenous drip of insulin.
C)
furosemide, a loop diuretic.
D)
gallium nitrate, a gallium salt of nitric acid.
E)
prednisone, a corticosteroid.
Ans:
A, D, E
Feedback:
The bisphosphonates (e.g.,pamidronate, zoledronate), which act mainly by inhibiting osteoclastic activity, provide a significant reduction in calcium levels with relatively few side effects. Calcitonin also inhibits osteoclastic activity. Gallium nitrate is highly effective in the treatment of severe hypercalcemia associated with malignancy. Prednisone, a corticosteroid, inhibits bone resorption.
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Indicate whether the statement is true or false.
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