Surgery>>>>>Fluid and Electrolyte Management of the Surgical Patient
Question 4#

Hypocalcemia may cause which of the following?

A. Congestive heart failure
B. Atrial fibrillation
C. Pancreatitis
D. Hypoparathyroidism

Correct Answer is A

Comment:

Mild hypocalcemia can present with muscle cramping or digital/perioral paresthesias. Severe hypocalcemia leads to decreased cardiac contractility and heart failure. ECG changes of hypocalcemia include prolonged QT interval, T-wave inversion, heart block, and ventricular fibrillation. Hypoparathyroidism and severe pancreatitis are potential causes of hypocalcemia.