A nurse is assessing a client who has hypoparathyroidism. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Client report of anorexia: Anorexia is not a common symptom of hypoparathyroidism. The primary concerns are related to calcium levels and neuromuscular symptoms, not appetite changes. B. Flaccid muscles: Hypoparathyroidism typically causes muscle spasms or stiffness due to low calcium levels, not flaccid muscles. Muscle rigidity or tetany is more characteristic. C. Negative Chvostek's sign: A negative Chvostek's sign indicates normal calcium levels, but in hypoparathyroidism, Chvostek's sign is typically positive (facial muscle twitching) due to low calcium levels. D. Client report of numbness in his hands: Numbness or tingling, especially in the hands and around the mouth, is a common symptom of hypoparathyroidism due to low calcium levels, which affect nerve function.