Final answer:
The priority action by the nurse for a client with a calcium level of 4.2 mg/dL is immediate intravenous administration of calcium salts to correct severe hypocalcemia and continuous monitoring, along with investigation and treatment of the underlying cause.
Step-by-step explanation:
Priority Action for Hypocalcemia
The priority action by the nurse when a client is admitted with a calcium level of 4.2 mg/dL, which is significantly lower than the normal blood values range of 9.5-10.5 mg/dL, is to address the severe hypocalcemia. This can lead to critical issues, including problems with muscle contraction, blood coagulation, and nerve functioning. Immediate action typically involves administration of calcium gluconate or calcium chloride intravenously to correct the calcium deficit.
It is essential to monitor the patient continuously during this treatment for signs of improved calcium levels, while also looking out for potential complications such as cardiac arrhythmia. Moreover, the underlying cause of the hypocalcemia should be assessed and treated simultaneously. Investigations might include checking the parathyroid hormone levels, vitamin D status, and magnesium levels, as these are involved in calcium homeostasis alongside the skeletal, endocrine, digestive, and urinary systems mentioned earlier.