When the nurse is reviewing a client’s laboratory results, a low calci

When the nurse is reviewing a client’s laboratory results, a low calcium level is noted. When the nurse then reviews the client’s electrocardiogram, the most likely change noted will be a(n):

1. Increased Q-T interval
2. Increased P-R interval
3. Q-T interval less than 0.12 seconds
4. QRS interval greater than 0.12 seconds

ANSWER

ANS: 1
The normal Q-T interval is 0.12 to 0.42 second. Changes in electrolyte values, such as hy-pocalcemia, or therapy with drugs such as disopyramide or amiodarone increase the Q-T interval. The remaining options do not reflect a low calcium level.