Chapter 1-6: Hypocalcemia & Phosphorus Management (Quiz Flashcards)

A set of practice flashcards covering hypocalcemia signs (tetany, Chvostek's and Trousseau's signs), complications (airway and cardiac), vitamin D role, calcium/phosphate management, and diet-related strategies for phosphorus control.

What is tetany?

Umbrella term for signs and symptoms of hypocalcemia (muscle irritability).

What are the earliest signs of tetany?

Numbness and tingling (paresthesias) in fingertips, toes, lips, and other distal/extremity areas.

What signs typically follow if hypocalcemia progresses beyond early tetany?

Muscle spasms and muscle cramps.

What is Chvostek's sign and how is it tested?

A facial muscle spasm triggered by tapping the facial nerve at the cheek near the ear.

What is Trousseau's sign?

Carpopedal spasm triggered by inflating a blood pressure cuff above systolic pressure for several minutes, indicating hypocalcemia.

Why is laryngospasm a dangerous complication of severe hypocalcemia?

Muscle spasms can involve the larynx, leading to airway obstruction and potentially life-threatening breathing difficulties.

What cardiac complications can occur with hypocalcemia?

Cardiac dysrhythmias (lethal rhythms) due to reduced calcium stabilizing cardiac conduction.

What seizure-related risk is associated with hypocalcemia?

Hypocalcemia can contribute to seizures; this can occur with signs like Chvostek's and Trousseau's.

What skin symptom can occur with low calcium, particularly in renal failure?

Pruritus (itching).

What are the skeletal consequences of low calcium?

Decreased bone density, bone pain, and increased risk of fractures as calcium is pulled from bone to bloodstream.

What neurocognitive symptoms may accompany low calcium?

Fatigue, irritability, and altered mental status.

Is nausea or vomiting a primary sign of hypocalcemia?

Not a primary sign; it is more often related to other causes (e.g., vitamin D deficiency or PTH issues).

What role does vitamin D play in calcium metabolism?

Vitamin D is needed to help absorb calcium from the gut.

What calcium-containing compound is mentioned as a supplement in the notes (also associated with phosphate management)?

Calcium acetate (Tums) as a supplement (noted in the lecture as a calcium source).

What is the purpose of phosphate binders in phosphorus management?

To bind dietary phosphorus in the GI tract so it is not absorbed and is excreted in stool.

Name common phosphate binders mentioned in the notes.

Sevelamer (Renvela/Renagel), Fosrenol (lanthanum carbonate), Renegel.

When should phosphate binders be taken?

With meals.

What is the typical phosphate binder dose mentioned, and how is it divided?

Approximately 2000 mg total, divided across meals (e.g., three meals -> three doses).

What dietary strategy is suggested to reduce phosphorus intake?

Avoid dark sodas and many processed, shelf-stable foods; eat fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and seafood; shop the edges of the grocery store.

Are diuretics effective for lowering phosphorus levels?

No; diuretics do not lower phosphorus levels.

What are fall prevention and bone health recommendations mentioned?

Engage in weight-bearing exercises and implement fall-prevention measures (e.g., safety planning, footwear, etc.).

How does phosphorus management relate to renal failure patients?

Renal failure often requires phosphorus restriction to prevent hyperphosphatemia and bone disease.