CVS Practice Test 2025 - Free CVS Practice Questions and Study Guide

Hypocalcemia, or low levels of calcium in the blood, can lead to several serious physiological changes, particularly affecting the cardiovascular system. One of the primary consequences observed in hypocalcemia is cardiac dysrhythmias, which refers to irregular heartbeats that can arise due to the reduced availability of calcium for proper myocardial contractility. Calcium plays a crucial role in cardiac muscle contraction, and insufficient calcium levels can disrupt the electrical impulses that coordinate heart rhythms, leading to arrhythmias.

Additionally, electrocardiogram (EKG) changes are commonly observed in hypocalcemic patients. These changes may include prolonged QT intervals and other alterations that can indicate distress in cardiac function. The relationship between calcium and cardiac activity is significant. Therefore, hypocalcemia is particularly associated with changes in heart function that can be monitored using an EKG, warranting close attention in clinical settings.

The other options suggest potential consequences that are not primarily linked to hypocalcemia. For instance, increased heart rate and hypertension are more characteristic of hypercalcemia or other conditions rather than low calcium levels. Decreased respiratory rate and hypoventilation typically arise from different respiratory or neurological issues rather than calcium deficiencies. Weight gain and increased fluid retention also do not correlate strongly with hypocal