A patient has a serum calcium level of 7.9 mg/dL.Which factor should a nurse identify as contributing to this laboratory value?
A)pH 7.49 and serum albumin 2.5 g/dL
B)pH 7.42 and serum potassium 4.2 mEq/L
C)pH 7.40 and serum sodium 140 mEq/L
D)pH 7.35 and serum albumin 4.0 g/dL

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A low serum albumin level can contribute to a low serum calcium level because calcium is bound to albumin in the blood. A lower albumin level means less calcium is bound, and thus, the measured serum calcium is lower. The pH value in option A is also slightly alkalotic, which can affect ionized calcium levels, but the key factor here is the low albumin.

A Patient Has a Serum Calcium Level of 7