Calcium Carbonate Flashcards

Study Notes

Calcium Carbonate Overview

Calcium carbonate acts as a mineral and electrolyte supplement, also functioning as an antacid.

Indications

Prescribed for treatment and prevention of hypocalcemia.
Used as an adjunct in preventing postmenopausal osteoporosis.
Functions as an effective antacid for heartburn relief.

Reasons for Medication

Client may be experiencing reduced bone density or osteoporosis.
Often used to alleviate symptoms of heartburn.

Action and Desired Effect

Crucial for the functioning of the nervous, muscular, and skeletal systems.
Supports bone formation and replaces calcium during recovery.
Maintains cell membrane stability and capillary permeability.

Safe Dosage

Recommended daily intake ranges from 1-2 grams.
As an antacid, can be taken on an as-needed basis, between 0.1-1.5 grams.

Critical Side Effects

Possible side effects include tingling, bradycardia, and arrhythmias.
Risk of hypercalcemia, constipation, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.
Can lead to kidney stones (calculi) and hypercalciuria.

Important Client Considerations

Assess dietary habits, including interaction with cereals, spinach, or rhubarb.
Co-administration with alendronate should be noted.
Monitor for dysphasia and potential risk of hypercalcemia.

Contraindications

Not safe for patients with hypercalcemia, renal calculi, or ventricular fibrillation.
Concurrent use of calcium supplements, such as calcium acetate, is not recommended.

Nursing Actions

Monitor for hypocalcemia symptoms: paresthesia, muscle twitching, laryngospasm.
Protect symptomatic patients through appropriate bed safety measures.
Assess for heartburn, indigestion, and abdominal pain when used as an antacid.
Check bowel sounds and signs of toxicity: nausea, vomiting, severe constipation.
Regularly monitor serum and ionized calcium, magnesium, and other vital levels.
Administer medication 1-1½ hours after meals and at bedtime with thickened fluid.

Client Education

Avoid taking enteric-coated tablets within one hour of calcium carbonate.
Do not take concurrently with foods like spinach, rhubarb, bran cereals, or dairy to prevent complications such as milk-alkali syndrome.
Advise against taking within one to two hours of other medications.
Warn about potential constipation and encourage moderation with caffeine, tobacco, and alcohol.
Promote discussions regarding exercise and ensure adequate Vitamin D intake in the diet.

Description

Explore essential concepts regarding Calcium Carbonate through these flashcards. Learn about its uses as a mineral supplement, antacid, and its role in treating conditions like osteoporosis and hypocalcemia. Ideal for students and healthcare professionals.