Surgery>>>>>Fluid and Electrolyte Management of the Surgical Patient
Question 31#

Three days after surgery for gastric carcinoma, a 50-year old alcoholic male exhibits delirium, muscle tremors, and hyperactive tendon reflexes. Magnesium deficiency is suspected. All of the following statements regarding this situation are true EXCEPT :

A. A decision to administer magnesium should be based on the serum magnesium level
B. Adequate cellular replacement of magnesium will require 1 to 3 weeks
C. A concomitant calcium deficiency should be suspected
D. Calcium is a specific antagonist of the myocardial effects of magnesium

Correct Answer is A

Comment:

Magnesium deficiency should be suspected in any malnourished patient who exhibits disturbed neuromuscular or cerebral activity in the postoperative period. Laboratory confirmation often is not reliable, and the syndrome may exist in the presence of a normal serum magnesium level. Hypocalcemia often coexists, particularly in patients who have clinical signs of tetany. Intravenous magnesium can be administered safely to a well-hydrated patient for initial treatment of a severe deficit, but concomitant electrocardiographic monitoring is essential. The electrocardiographic changes associated with acute hypermagnesemia resemble those of hyperkalemia, and calcium chloride or gluconate should be readily available to counteract any adverse myocardial effects of excess magnesium ions. Partial or complete relief of symptoms may follow the initial infusion of magnesium, although continued replacement for a period of 1 to 3 weeks is necessary to rep lenish cellular stores.