The nurse prepares to assess a newly admitted client diagnosed with chronic alcohol abuse whose laboratory report shows a magnesium level of 1.0 mEq/L (0.5 mmol/L). Which assessment finding does the nurse anticipate?

Question

The nurse prepares to assess a newly admitted client diagnosed with chronic alcohol abuse whose laboratory report shows a magnesium level of 1.0 mEq/L (0.5 mmol/L).  Which assessment finding does the nurse anticipate?

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Hypomagnesemia, a low blood magnesium level (normal 1.5-2.5 mEq/L [0.75-1.25 mmol/L]), is associated with alcohol abuse due to poor absorption, inadequate nutritional intake, and increased losses via the gastrointestinal and renal systems. It is associated with 2 major issues: Ventricular arrhythmias (torsades de pointes): This is the most serious concern (priority). Neuromuscular excitability: Manifestations of low magnesium, similar to those found in hypocalcemia and demonstrated by neuromuscular excitability, include tremors, hyperactive reflexes, positive Trousseau and Chvostek signs, and seizures. (Option A) Constipation and polyuria indicate hypercalcemia. Calcium has a diuretic effect. (Option B) Increased thirst with dry mucous membranes indicates hypernatremia. (Option C) Hypokalemia results in muscle weakness/paralysis and soft, flabby muscles. Paralytic ileus (abdominal distension, decreased bowel sounds) is also common with hypokalemia. However, the most serious complication is cardiac arrhythmias. Educational objective: Clients who abuse alcohol often have low magnesium levels that manifest as ventricular arrhythmias and/or neuromuscular excitability (similar to hypocalcemia), which includes tremors, positive Chvostek and Trousseau signs, hyperactive reflexes, and seizures.

The Nurse Prepares to Assess a Newly Admitted Client Diagnosed