Question

What nursing action would the Rn perform to address the needs of a patient with hypercalcemia

Answer 1

hypercalcemia is an elevated calcium level in the blood (that is more than 10.0 mg/dL)

normal level: 8.6-10 mg/dL

hypercalcemia is may be due to hyperparathyroidism, increased calcium intake, use of glucocorticoids, use of thiazide diuretics, Addison's disease, Lithium usage.

due to hypercalcemia patients shows signs and symptoms such as weakness of muscles, ECG changes (shortened QT interval and prolonged PR interval, disorientation, abdominal distention with constipation, renal calculi.

nursing interventions

• Hydrate patient -to reduce renal calculi formation
• use side rails -to avoid falls or injury due to disorientation
• assess cardiac status ( ECG changes)
• Monitor gastrointestinal, renal and neurological status of the patient.
• check for any flank pain/abdominal pain or strain urine if suspecting renal calculi formation
• avoid /reduce calcium-rich foods
• withhold drugs like thiazide, supplements of vitamin D
• in severe hypercalcemia prepare patient for dialysis