Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse Practitioner (AOCNP) Certification Practice Test

What factor can contribute to increased calcium resorption from bone, potentially leading to hypercalcemia?

1. Immobility

2. Adequate hydration

3. Regular exercise

4. Low dietary calcium intake

The correct answer is: Immobility

Immobility can significantly contribute to increased calcium resorption from bone, which is a key factor in the development of hypercalcemia. When a person is immobile, the mechanical load on the bones is reduced. This lack of mechanical stress is crucial for maintaining bone density, as bones remodel in response to the forces exerted on them. As a result of immobility, the balance between bone formation and bone resorption shifts towards resorption, leading to the release of calcium into the bloodstream. This increased calcium release can overwhelm the body's ability to excrete it, culminating in hypercalcemia. In contrast, adequate hydration and regular exercise are associated with improved calcium metabolism and bone health, as hydration supports kidney function and exercise promotes bone density. Low dietary calcium intake does not directly lead to increased calcium resorption; rather, it might contribute to lower calcium levels in the blood, prompting the body to take calcium from bones only if absolutely necessary, rather than increasing resorption due to immobility.