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Hypocalcemia tetany — ABEM Board MCQ

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ModerateRenal/Metabolic emergenciesHypocalcemia tetanyABEM Board

A 47-year-old woman with prior thyroidectomy arrives with perioral numbness and hand spasms. Triage acuity is ESI 2; BP 128/74 mm Hg, HR 104/min. She has carpopedal spasm, positive Chvostek sign, and QT prolongation. Ionized calcium is markedly low. Which of the following is the most important immediate intervention?

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Correct answer: B — Give IV calcium gluconate

Symptomatic hypocalcemia with tetany and QT prolongation requires IV calcium.

Reference: Endocrine emergency hypocalcemia guidance