Calcium

Get a free nursing lab values cheat sheet at NURSING.com/63labs   What is the Lab Name for Calcium (Ca+) Lab Values? Calcium   What is the Lab Abbreviation for Calcium? Ca+   What is Calcium in terms of Nursing Labs? Calcium (Ca+), a positive ion in the body, is necessary for neuromuscular processes, bone mineralization, and hormonal secretion. The parathyroid gland and vitamin D are responsible for calcium regulation in the body. In the blood, about half of calcium travels in ion form, the other half is bound to proteins like albumin. When albumin levels are low, calcium levels will appear lower. Calcium has an important relationship with phosphorus: they are inversely proportional.   What is the Normal Range for Calcium? 8.4-10.2 mg/dL   What are the Indications for Calcium? Identify problems with: Parathyroid Neuromuscular functions Diseases that affect bone Effectiveness of treatments.   What would cause Increased Levels of Calcium? Cancers: Breast, lung, and multiple myeloma are the most common Hyperparathyroidism Acidosis Renal transplant Sarcoidosis Vitamin D toxicity Dehydration   What would cause Decreased Levels of Calcium? Malnutrition Cirrhosis Chronic Renal Failure Hypoparathyroidism Alkalosis Hypomagnesemia Hypoalbuminemia Hyperphosphatemia Malabsorption Alcoholism Osteomalacia Vitamin D deficiency