A client is demonstrating a positive Chvostek's sign. Which assessment question best supports the expected finding?

• A. Ask the client about numbness or tingling in the hands
• B. Ask about vision changes
• C. Ask about headaches
• D. Ask about constipation

Answer: (A)

Chvostek's sign reflects hypocalcemia causing increased neuromuscular excitability. When calcium is low, nerves fire more easily, leading to sensory paresthesias such as numbness or tingling. Asking about numbness or tingling in the hands directly assesses these neuromuscular symptoms that accompany low calcium, making it the best choice to support the expected finding. Vision changes, headaches, and constipation are less specific indicators of acute calcium imbalance, so they don’t align as closely with the neuromuscular irritability seen with a positive Chvostek's sign.