Practice Question
A nurse is caring for a client who had a total thyroidectomy and a serum calcium level of 7.6 mg/dL. (range 8.5-10.5) Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
Answer Choices:
Correct Answer:
Tingling of the extremities
Rationale:
🟣 Hypocalcemia is common after a total thyroidectomy due to possible removal or damage to the parathyroid glands, which regulate calcium levels.
🟣 A calcium level of 7.6 mg/dL is below normal (normal: 8.5–10.5 mg/dL) and indicates moderate hypocalcemia.
🟣 Tingling or numbness in the fingers, toes, or around the mouth is an early neuromuscular sign of low calcium.
🟣 Additional symptoms can include muscle cramps, tetany, or positive Chvostek’s and Trousseau’s signs.
🟣 The nurse should report findings immediately and anticipate IV calcium gluconate administration if symptoms worsen.
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This question is from N3661 spring 2025 Final Exam which contains 78 questions.
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Question Details
- Category: RN Nursing Exam(s)
- Subcategory: ATI Exam(s)
- Domain: RN ATI MedSurg
- Answer Choices: 4