When assessing a client with a serum calcium level of 3.1 mg/dL, which function should the nurse focus on?

A serum calcium level of 3.1 mg/dL indicates a significantly elevated calcium level, a condition known as hypercalcemia. In such cases, one of the primary concerns is the effect of high calcium levels on muscle function. Elevated calcium can lead to muscle weakness and a decrease in neuromuscular excitability. Therefore, assessing muscle tone is critical because it can reflect the underlying neuromuscular status and help identify potential complications associated with hypercalcemia.

Proper evaluation of muscle tone can inform the clinician about the client's ability to perform movements and may indicate whether they are experiencing muscle weakness, which is a common symptom of hypercalcemia. Monitoring muscle tone will help guide appropriate interventions to manage the condition effectively.