lab

1. Calcium

2. Calcium
More than 99% of the body’s calcium is •
located in the skeletal system
Normal serum calcium level is 8.5 to 10mg/dL •
Needed for transmission of •
nerve impulses
Intracellular calcium is needed •
for contraction of muscles

3. Calcium
Extracellular needed for blood clotting •
Needed for tooth and bone formation •
Needed for maintaining a normal heart •
rhythm

4. Hypocalcemia
Serum Calcium level less than 8.5 mEq/L •

5. Hypocalcemia
Causes •
Vitamin D/Calcium deficiency -
hypo parathyroidism -
Pancreatitis -
Renal failure -

6. Hypocalcemia
Clinical picture •
- Tetany and cramps in muscles of limbs

7. Hypocalcemia
Trousseau’s sign – carpal spasms •

8. Hypocalcemia
Chvostek’s sign – cheek twitching •

9. Hypocalcemia
Seizures, mental changes •

10. Hypocalcemia
Medical/Nursing management •
IV/PO Calcium Carbonate or Calcium -
Gluconate
Encourage increased dietary intake of Calcium -
Monitor neurlogical status -
Establish seizure precautions -

11. Hypercalcemia
Serum Calcium level greater than 10.5 mEq/L •

12. Hypercalcemia
Causes: •
Hyperparathyroidism -
Prolonged immobilization -
Thiazide diuretics -
Large doses of Vitamin D -

13. Hypercalcemia
Clinical picture: •
Muscle weakness, nausea and vomiting -
Lethargy and confusion -
Constipation -
Cardiac Arrest (in -
hypercalcemic crisis,
level 17mg/dL or
higher)

14. Hypercalcemia
Medical/Nursing Management •
Eliminate Calcium from diet -
Monitor neurological status -
Increase fluids (IV or PO) -
Calcitonin -

15. Thank you •