Questions and Answers
What is calcium carbonate primarily used for?
What are the indications for taking calcium carbonate?
Treatment and prevention of hypocalcemia; adjunct in the prevention of postmenopausal osteoporosis; as an antacid.
Why is the client taking this medication?
Reduced bone density; osteoporosis; heartburn.
What is the desired action of calcium carbonate?
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What is the safe dose of calcium carbonate?
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What are critical side effects of calcium carbonate?
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What is important to know about the client taking calcium carbonate?
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What are some contraindications for calcium carbonate?
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What nursing actions should be taken with clients on calcium carbonate?
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What does the client need to know when taking calcium carbonate?
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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.
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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.
