The nurse is caring for a client with hypoparathyroidism. The nurse understands that this client is at risk for which problem?

  1. hypercalcemia
  2. hypermagnesemia
  3. decreased phosphorus levels
  4. low parathyroid hormone levels
Number 4 is correct.
Rationale: Clients with hypoparathyroidism have low parathyroid hormone levels on blood tests. Hypocalcemia, not hypercalcemia, is also present. Magnesium levels are decreased, while phosphorus levels are increased.