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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Correct Answer is ["C","D","E"]
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Bradycardia is not typically associated with emphysema; tachycardia is more common due to hypoxia.
B. Deep respirations are not a hallmark of emphysema; patients often have shallow, rapid breathing due to decreased lung capacity.
C. A barrel chest is a characteristic sign of emphysema, resulting from hyperinflation of the lungs over time.
D. Clubbing of the fingers can occur due to chronic hypoxia associated with emphysema.
E. Dyspnea, or difficulty breathing, is a primary symptom of emphysema due to the destruction of alveoli and reduced gas exchange.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Hypertension can be a symptom of many conditions and is not specific to HHS.
B. Fruity breath is typically associated with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) due to the presence of acetone, not HHS.
C. Ketosis is a key feature of DKA, not HHS. In HHS, ketosis is usually absent or minimal.
D. A glucose level of 650 mg/dL is indicative of HHS, which is characterized by extremely high blood glucose levels without significant ketosis. HHS often occurs in type 2 diabetes and is marked by severe hyperglycemia, dehydration, and altered mental status.