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. Purulent dialysate outflow is a sign of infection, specifically peritonitis, which is a serious complication of peritoneal dialysis that requires immediate medical attention.
B. Blood-tinged dialysate can occur, especially if the client is new to dialysis or has had recent abdominal surgery, but it should be monitored rather than immediately reported unless it is excessive.
C. A feeling of fullness during the dialysate dwelling phase is common and usually resolves as the body adjusts to the procedure.
D. Discomfort during dialysate inflow can occur, particularly with fast inflow rates or high dialysate volumes, but it is not immediately life-threatening.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Exophthalmos is typically associated with hyperthyroidism, particularly in Graves' disease, and is not a characteristic finding in hypothyroidism.
B. Weight gain is a common symptom of hypothyroidism due to the slowed metabolism caused by reduced thyroid hormone levels. Clients often report unexplained weight gain despite maintaining a normal diet and activity level.
C. Diaphoresis, or excessive sweating, is more commonly associated with hyperthyroidism, where increased metabolism leads to heat intolerance and sweating.
D. Palpitations are also more commonly associated with hyperthyroidism, where an increased heart rate and heightened sensitivity to adrenaline are common. In hypothyroidism, bradycardia or a slowed heart rate may be observed instead.