The nurse understands calcium when stating

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Calcium (Ca) needs vitamin D to be absorbed in the GI tract. Vitamin D plays a crucial role in the absorption of calcium from the intestines into the bloodstream. Without sufficient levels of vitamin D, the body cannot effectively absorb calcium, leading to calcium deficiency. Therefore, it is important for a nurse to understand that calcium needs vitamin D for proper absorption in the gastrointestinal tract.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Sodium (Na). Sodium is the main cation in the extracellular fluid (ECF) due to its high concentration relative to other cations in the ECF. Sodium plays a crucial role in maintaining fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contractions. Potassium (A) is the main intracellular cation, while Calcium (C) and Magnesium (D) are also important cations but are not the main cation in the ECF. Therefore, Sodium is the correct answer as it is the primary cation present in the extracellular fluid.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Hypocalcemia. Tetany and muscle spasms are classic symptoms of low calcium levels. Calcium is essential for muscle contraction and nerve function. Hypocalcemia causes increased excitability of nerves and muscles, leading to tetany and spasms. Incorrect choices: A: Hyperkalemia - High potassium levels do not typically cause tetany or muscle spasms. B: Hypokalemia - Low potassium levels can cause muscle weakness but not tetany. D: Hypernatremia - High sodium levels do not directly lead to tetany or muscle spasms.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The normal arterial blood pH is around 7.35-7.45. Option C, 7.45 falls within this range, making it the correct answer. A pH of 7.25 (option A) is considered acidic, while a pH of 7.55 (option D) is alkaline, both outside the normal range. Option B, 7.35, is towards the lower end of the normal range but still within it. Overall, option C is the most appropriate choice as it aligns with the typical arterial blood pH range.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Certainly! The correct answer is B: Promote sodium and water excretion. Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) is released by the heart in response to high blood pressure or volume overload. ANP acts to dilate blood vessels, increase glomerular filtration rate, and promote sodium and water excretion by the kidneys. This results in a decrease in blood volume and blood pressure. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because ANP does not have the function of increasing blood pressure, retaining sodium and water, or increasing thirst.