Free NCLEX RN Practice Test Practice Question
The nurse caring for a client diagnosed with metastatic cancer of the bone is exhibiting mental confusion and a BP of 150/100. Which laboratory value would correlate with the client's symptoms reflecting a common complication with this diagnosis?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In cases of metastatic bone cancer, hypercalcemia is a common complication due to the release of calcium from the bones into the bloodstream. A calcium level of 13 mg/dL indicates hypercalcemia, which can cause symptoms such as mental confusion and elevated blood pressure.
Option A, potassium at 5.2 mEq/L, is within a normal range and does not directly relate to the symptoms presented. Option C, inorganic phosphorus at 1.7 mEq/L, is low and typically does not correlate with the symptoms of confusion or hypertension. Option D, sodium at 138 mEq/L, is also within normal limits and does not explain the client's condition. Thus, hypercalcemia is the most relevant laboratory finding in this scenario.
Unlock All Questions
Subscribe to Premium for full access to all practice questions, detailed rationales, and performance tracking.
Subscribe Now