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A patient who has undergone neck surgery for removal of the parathyroid gland states that he is experiencing muscle twitching and spasms. The physician orders blood tests to confirm the diagnosis. The nurse expects that:

Explanation

•Hypocalemia can cause muscle twitching, spasms, petechiae, and tingling.

•Parathyroid hormone acts to increase serum calcium through breakdown of bone. Removal of the parathyroid gland may cause hypocalcemia.

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