title: Balancing calcium and phosphorus levels in chronic renal failure patients.
abstract: Patients with chronic renal failure (CRF) can develop problems such as lethargy, tetany, and muscle spasms, which can increase their morbidity and mortality. Because of their non-functioning kidneys, patients with CRF require in-depth and comprehensive monitoring of calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P) levels. This article presents advanced nursing actions and critical thinking strategies for use by the critical care nurse when caring for patients with CRF.
authors.affiliation: School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA.
authors.forename: C
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Arslanian-Engoren
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D002118:Calcium / Q000378:metabolism*; D003422:Critical Care; D003663:Decision Trees; D006801:Humans; D007676:Kidney Failure, Chronic / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000451:nursing*; D008297:Male; D008991:Monitoring, Physiologic; D009730:Nursing Assessment; D010347:Patient Care Planning; D010758:Phosphorus / Q000378:metabolism*
chemical_list: D010758:Phosphorus; D002118:Calcium