The nurse assessing a client hospitalized with a diagnosis of hypoparathyroidism notes positive Trousseau's and Chvostek's signs. The nurse determines that these findings most indicate which electrolyte imbalance?
Hypernatremia
Hypermagnesemia
Hypocalcemia
Hypokalemia
The Correct Answer is C
Rationale:
A. Hypernatremia, an elevated sodium level, does not cause Trousseau's or Chvostek's signs.
B. Hypermagnesemia, an elevated magnesium level, is not associated with positive Trousseau's and Chvostek's signs.
C. Hypocalcemia, a low calcium level, is commonly associated with positive Trousseau's and Chvostek's signs. Trousseau's sign is a carpopedal spasm induced by inflating a blood pressure cuff, while Chvostek's sign is facial twitching in response to tapping over the facial nerve. Both are indicative of neuromuscular irritability due to low calcium levels.
D. Hypokalemia, a low potassium level, does not cause these specific signs and is associated with different clinical manifestations.
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View Related questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Airway patency is the highest priority following a thyroidectomy due to the risk of airway obstruction from swelling or hematoma formation near the surgical site. Compromised airway can lead to respiratory distress and requires immediate attention.
B. While monitoring temperature is important for detecting potential infections, it is not the immediate priority.
C. Pain control is important for comfort and recovery, but it is not life-threatening.
D. Urination should be monitored postoperatively, but it is not as critical as ensuring a patent airway.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Bubbling in the water seal chamber with exhalation can be normal as it indicates air is escaping from the pleural space; however, continuous bubbling may indicate an air leak and would need to be assessed.
B. Movement of the trachea toward the unaffected side is a sign of a tension pneumothorax, a life-threatening condition requiring immediate
medical intervention. This tracheal deviation suggests that the pressure in the pleural space is increasing, pushing the mediastinum to the opposite side.
C. Scant serosanguinous drainage on the dressing is expected and not an immediate concern unless it becomes excessive.
D. Crepitus, or subcutaneous emphysema, indicates air leakage into the tissues but is not immediately life-threatening unless it is extensive and worsening rapidly.