Identify two common electrolyte disturbances in neonates and one clinical manifestation for each.

• A. Hypercalcemia (tachycardia) and Hypokalemia (muscle weakness).
• B. Hypocalcemia (jitteriness or seizures; may irritability) and Hyperkalemia (arrhythmias or bradycardia; poor perfusion).
• C. Hyponatremia (confusion) and Hypernatremia (seizures).
• D. Hypomagnesemia (arrhythmias) and Hyperphosphatemia (bone pain).

Answer: (B)

The main idea here is to recognize two common electrolyte problems that show distinct, classic signs in newborns, so you can quickly connect the disturbance with a clinical clue.

Hypocalcemia in neonates is a frequent issue, especially in the first days of life. A hallmark sign to watch for is jitteriness or irritability, and in more severe cases seizures can occur. This makes sense because low calcium lowers the threshold for neuronal excitability, leading to these movement and neurobehavioral signs.

Hyperkalemia is another common neonatal disturbance, often seen with immature kidneys, acidosis, or tissue breakdown. The classic danger signal is cardiac: arrhythmias or bradycardia can appear, and perfusion may be poor. These cardiovascular signs reflect the potassium-driven changes in cardiac conduction and contractility.

This pairing is the best choice because hypocalcemia and hyperkalemia are both among the more frequently encountered electrolyte issues in the neonate with straightforward, recognizable presentations. Other options describe disturbances that are less typical in the immediate neonatal period or present with signs that aren’t as characteristic for those conditions in newborns. If you hear jitteriness in a newborn, think calcium; if you notice bradycardia or poor perfusion with possible ECG changes, think potassium.