The nurse is caring for a child with hypoparathyroidism who exhibits a carpal spasm when pressure is applied to the upper arm. Which laboratory value should the nurse review?

Choice A rationale Sodium levels are not typically affected by hypoparathyroidism. Hypoparathyroidism primarily affects calcium and phosphorus levels in the body. Choice B rationale Hypoparathyroidism leads to abnormally low levels of parathyroid hormone, which results in low calcium levels in the blood. A carpal spasm when pressure is applied to the upper arm, also known as Trousseau’s sign, is a common symptom of hypocalcemia. Choice C rationale Potassium levels are not typically affected by hypoparathyroidism. Hypoparathyroidism primarily affects calcium and phosphorus levels in the body. Choice D rationale Chloride levels are not typically affected by hypoparathyroidism. Hypoparathyroidism primarily affects calcium and phosphorus levels in the body.