Orthopaedic Nurses Certification Board (ONCB) Metabolic/Inflammatory/Tumors Practice Exam

What is a common complication associated with hyperparathyroidism?

1. Seizure activity

2. Cardiac dysrhythmias

3. Delirium

4. Osteoporosis

The correct answer is: Osteoporosis

Hyperparathyroidism is characterized by an overproduction of parathyroid hormone (PTH), which plays a crucial role in regulating calcium levels in the blood. One of the most significant effects of excess PTH is its impact on bone health. The hormone stimulates the release of calcium from bones into the bloodstream, which can lead to a decrease in bone density over time. This process can result in osteoporosis, a condition where bones become fragile and are more prone to fractures. Osteoporosis develops because the continual mobilization of calcium from the bones outpaces the body’s ability to form new bone, especially if the condition is chronic. This makes the choice of osteoporosis a key complication of hyperparathyroidism, as it directly reflects the sustained physiological imbalance caused by prolonged elevated levels of PTH. In contrast, while conditions like seizure activity, cardiac dysrhythmias, and delirium can be related to calcium imbalances in the body, they are not considered common complications of hyperparathyroidism itself compared to osteoporosis. The primary and most prevalent consequence of the disrupted bone metabolism associated with hyperparathyroidism is a decrease in bone density and an increased risk of fractures, thus solidifying osteoporosis as the correct answer.