Question

A nurse is collecting data from a client who has hypercalemia as a result of long term use of glucocorticoids. which of the following finding should the nurse expect. (select all that apply)

A. Hyperreflexia
B. Confusion
C. Positive chvosteck's signs
D. Bone Pain
E. Nausea

Answer 1

In the case of hypercalcemia from long-term glucocorticoids use, a nurse should expect to find symptoms such as confusion, bone pain, and nausea, which are indicative of an underactive nervous system and metabolic effects of high cortisol levels. Conversely, hyperreflexia and Chvostek's signs are associated with hypocalcemia and are not typical of hypercalcemia.

Step-by-step explanation:

A nurse collecting data from a client with hypercalcemia resulting from long-term use of glucocorticoids should expect certain clinical findings. In the presence of hypercalcemia, the nervous system tends to be underactive, which typically leads to symptoms such as confusion, lethargy, sluggish reflexes, and constipation. Additionally, patients may experience loss of appetite, and in severe cases, coma.

The clinical findings that should be expected are:
B. Confusion - Due to the effects of high calcium levels on the brain.
D. Bone Pain - As excessive cortisol levels can lead to protein breakdown and subsequent bone pain.
E. Nausea - Can be a non-specific symptom associated with hypercalcemia.

It is important to note that findings such as hyperreflexia and positive Chvostek's signs are typically associated with hypocalcemia, not hypercalcemia, and would not be expected in this case.