Hypophosphatemia

What is phosphorus?  What role does phosphorus play within the body?  We are going to answer those questions and then review some causes and risk factors for developing hypophosphatemia, or low phosphorus levels.  We will then look at signs and symptoms that nurses will need to carefully monitor for. Finally, we will go over priority nursing interventions and medical treatments along with potential complications the condition can cause that would require additional treatment.

Learning Objectives:

Upon the completion of this lesson, learners will be able to:

1. Identify normal phosphate levels
2. Summarize causes and risk factors for developing hypophosphatemia
3. Examine signs and symptoms of hypophosphatemia
4. Develop care plans including medical and dietary treatment of hypophosphatemia
5. Determine priority nursing assessments and interventions for clients with hypophosphatemia