Calcium

Question 1

Calcium levels:

Answer 1

8.5 - 10.5

Question 2

Calcium functions:

Answer 2

-Bone teeth formation
- Neuromuscular function
-Clotting of blood

Question 3

Calcium is regulated by:

Answer 3

• PTH: brings Ca ↑, by releasing it from bones & enhancing Ca reabsorption in kidneys
• Calcitonin (PTH antagonist) brings Ca ↓. Inhibits bone breakdown, promotes kidney excretion of Ca
• Vit D: ↑ D = ↑ absorption of Ca in small intestine

Question 4

Calcium has an inverse relationship with:

Answer 4

Phosphate, if Ca is high, P is low.

Question 5

Hypocalcemia causes: < 8.5

Answer 5

Hypoparathyroidism
GI loses,
↓ Vit D ↑ P
Blood transfusions
CKD
Diuretics

Question 6

Hypocalcemia symptoms:

Answer 6

Chvasteks/Trosseaus
Muscle cramps
Paresthesia (numb)
Seizures
↓ BP
↓ Clotting

Question 7

Hypocalcemia interventions:

Answer 7

-Monitor Ca levels, neuromuscular function, cardiac
- Seizure precaution
- Weight bearing exercises
- ↑ Ca, Vit D,
Ca gluconate or Ca chloride (severe)

Question 8

Hypocalcemia diet:

Answer 8

Sardines, milk, leafy greens, oysters

Question 9

Hypercalcemia causes: >10.5

Answer 9

Hyperparathyroidism
Bone loss/cancer (↑ Ca release)
Thiazide diuretics
↑ Vit D
Immobilization
Dehydration

Question 10

Hypercalcemia symptoms:

Answer 10

Weakness
Kidney stones
↓ DTRs
Arrhythmia (cardiac arrest)
Constipation/polyuria
Bone pain

Question 11

Hypercalcemia interventions:

Answer 11

Monitor serum Mg, ECG changes
- Calcitonin
- Loop diuretics
- bisphosphonates
- Isotonic solution