Multiple Choice
Which of the following conditions would cause the nurse to monitor for hyperkalemia?
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26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance
Electrolyte Balance
Problem 5
Textbook Question
Calcium homeostasis primarily reflects:
(a) A balance between absorption in the gut and excretion by the kidneys
(b) Careful regulation of the blood calcium level by the kidneys
(c) An interplay between parathyroid hormone and aldosterone,
(d) An interplay among reserves in the bones, the rate of absorption, and the rate of excretion
(e) Hormonal control of calcium reserves in the bones
Verified step by step guidance1
Step 1: Understand the concept of calcium homeostasis, which refers to the regulation of calcium levels in the body to maintain a stable internal environment.
Step 2: Recognize that calcium homeostasis involves multiple organs and processes, including absorption of calcium from the gut, storage and release of calcium from bones, and excretion of calcium by the kidneys.
Step 3: Identify the key hormones involved in calcium regulation, primarily parathyroid hormone (PTH), which increases blood calcium by stimulating bone resorption, increasing gut absorption (indirectly via vitamin D), and reducing kidney excretion.
Step 4: Note that aldosterone is primarily involved in sodium and potassium balance, not calcium regulation, so it is not a main player in calcium homeostasis.
Step 5: Conclude that calcium homeostasis is best described as an interplay among calcium reserves in bones, the rate of absorption in the gut, and the rate of excretion by the kidneys, all regulated hormonally.
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Calcium Homeostasis
Calcium homeostasis refers to the body's regulation of calcium levels in the blood and tissues, maintaining a stable concentration essential for functions like muscle contraction and nerve signaling. It involves balancing calcium intake, storage, and excretion to prevent deficiency or excess.
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Introduction to Homeostasis
Role of Bones in Calcium Regulation
Bones act as a major reservoir for calcium, releasing or storing calcium to help maintain blood calcium levels. This dynamic exchange is crucial, as bones can supply calcium during low blood levels or absorb excess calcium when levels are high.
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Hormonal Control of Calcium Levels
Hormones such as parathyroid hormone (PTH), calcitonin, and vitamin D regulate calcium balance by influencing absorption in the gut, reabsorption in the kidneys, and mobilization from bones. PTH increases blood calcium by stimulating bone resorption and kidney reabsorption.
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