Pre-Test 1 and 2: Introduction to Special Questions Based on Official NCLEX-RN[®]
48. A nurse knows that a client with hypercalcemia may experience:
Select all that apply.
Pre-Test 1 and 2: Introduction to Special Questions Based on Official NCLEX-RN[®]
48. A nurse knows that a client with hypercalcemia may experience:
Select all that apply.
Test-Taking Tip
Look at pairs of contradictory options ( Answers 2 and 3, and Answers 5 and 6 ) where both can't be correct answers. Hypercalcemia depresses functions (e.g., bowels and activity).
Content Area: Adult Health, Fluid and Electrolyte Imbalances; Integrated Process: Nursing Process, Assessment; Cognitive Level: Analysis; Client Need/Subneed: Physiological Integrity/Physiological Adaptation/Fluid and Electrolyte Imbalances
Pre-Test 1 and 2: Introduction to Special Questions Based on Official NCLEX-RN[®]
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Answer 1 is correct because severe thirst may be secondary to the polyuria from the high solute (calcium) load. Answer 2 is correct because constipation is a common side effect from decreased tone in the bowel. Answer 3 is incorrect because diarrhea is not common with hypercalcemia until levels above 17 mg/dL, which is considered a crisis. Answer 4 is correct because the high calcium increases gastric acid secretion and may intensify gastrointestinal manifestation. Anorexia, nausea, and vomiting are intensified by increased gastric residual volume. Answer 5 is correct because high calcium levels depress brain function, leading to ↓ activity. Answer 6 is incorrect because hypercalcemia depresses neuromuscular excitability, leading to muscle weakness and lethargy.
