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