1) A nurse is caring for a client with hyperparathyroidism and notes that the client's

serum calcium level is 13 mg/dL. Which medication should the nurse prepare to

administer as prescribed to the client?

1. Calcium chloride

2. Calcium gluconate

3. Calcitonin (Miacalcin)

4. Large doses of vitamin D

(ANS- 3. Calcitonin (Miacalcin)

Rationale:

The normal serum calcium level is 8.6 to 10.0 mg/dL. This client is experiencing

hypercalcemia. Calcium gluconate and calcium chloride are medications used for

the treatment of tetany, which occurs as a result of acute hypocalcemia. In

hypercalcemia, large doses of vitamin D need to be avoided. Calcitonin, a thyroid

hormone, decreases the plasma calcium level by inhibiting bone resorption and

lowering the serum calcium concentration.

2.) Oral iron supplements are prescribed for a 6-year-old child with iron deficiency

anemia. The nurse instructs the mother to administer the iron with which best food

item?

1. Milk

2. Water

3. Apple juice

4. Orange juice

(ANS- 4. Orange juice

Rationale:

Vitamin C increases the absorption of iron by the body. The mother should be

instructed to administer the medication with a citrus fruit or a juice that is high in

vitamin C. Milk may affect absorption of the iron. Water will not assist in

absorption. Orange juice contains a greater amount of vitamin C than apple juice.