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Patients who have hyperphosphatemia show the following signs and
symptoms:

• Muscle problems.


• Hyperreflexia.


• Soft tissue calcification.


• Nausea.


• Vomiting.


• Hypocalcemia.


• Tachycardia.


• Anorexia.


• Tetany.

Treatment for hyperphosphatemia can include:

• Restricting foods and drinks (carbonated soda) high in phosphate.


• Treating the underlying cause.


• Institute seizure precautions.


• Administering sevelamer (Renagel).


• Administering calcium supplements.

Hypophosphatemia

Hypophosphatemia occurs in a patient’s whose serum phosphate is less than
2.5 mg/dL and is caused by:

• Inadequate intake.


• Diuresis.


• Dialysis.


• Alcoholism.


• Steroids.


• Overuse of phosphate-binding antacids.

The nurse should monitor the patient for the following signs and symptoms
of hypophosphatemia:

• Bone and muscle pain.


• Muscle weakness.


• Rhabdomyolysis.

CHAPTER 10 Fluid and Electrolyte Therapy^179