The nurse is caring for a female client following the removal of the parathyroid glands. The client complains of a “pins and needles” sensation and difficulty swallowing lunch. The nurse would expect which laboratory value to be abnormal?

  • calcium
  • potassium
  • magnesium
  • blood glucose
Number 1 is correct.
Hypocalcemia indicates hypoparathyroidism. Symptoms include paresthesias and dysphagia. Hypoparathyroidism does not alter potassium, magnesium, or blood glucose levels.