Which symptoms might a nurse expect in a patient with a severe calcium deficiency?

A severe calcium deficiency, also known as hypocalcemia, can lead to a range of neurological and muscular symptoms due to calcium's critical role in muscle contraction, nerve function, and overall cellular signaling. One of the hallmark symptoms of significant calcium deficiency is muscle spasms or cramps, often referred to as tetany. These spasms typically affect the hands and feet, manifesting as cramps, twitching, or even convulsions. This occurs because calcium is essential for the proper functioning of the neuromuscular system; when levels drop significantly, excitability of nerve cells increases, leading to involuntary contractions of muscles.

While fatigue and lethargy, dry skin, and rapid heart rate can occur in various medical conditions, they are not specific indicators of severe calcium deficiency. Fatigue might relate to multiple deficiencies or other health issues, dry skin is often associated with dehydration or other nutrient deficiencies, and an increased heart rate can be part of several cardiovascular conditions or stress responses. However, the specific and distinguishing symptom of muscle spasms directly relates to the critical role of calcium in muscle and nerve function, making it the correct choice regarding severe calcium deficiency symptoms.