A nurse is assisting with the care of a client who is placed on supplemental oxygen for hypoxia. The nurse should identify that which of the following findings indicate the intervention was effective?

Choice A reason: Muscle twitching is a sign of central nervous system oxygen toxicity, which can occur when breathing high concentrations of oxygen under pressure. It can also cause seizures, confusion, and loss of consciousness.

Choice B reason: Facial flushing is not a symptom of oxygen toxicity. It can be caused by other conditions such as fever, allergic reactions, or alcohol consumption.

Choice C reason: Periorbital edema is not a symptom of oxygen toxicity. It can be caused by other conditions such as kidney disease, heart failure, or allergies.

Choice D reason: Metallic taste in mouth is not a symptom of oxygen toxicity. It can be caused by other conditions such as medication side effects, dental problems, or infections.

The correct answer is b. Decreased deep tendon reflexes.

Choice A: Wheezing

Reason: Wheezing is typically associated with respiratory conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or allergic reactions. It is not a common manifestation of hyperkalemia. Hyperkalemia primarily affects the muscular and cardiovascular systems rather than the respiratory system.

Choice B: Decreased deep tendon reflexes

Reason: Hyperkalemia can cause neuromuscular symptoms, including muscle weakness and decreased deep tendon reflexes. High potassium levels interfere with the normal function of muscle cells and nerves, leading to these symptoms. This is a direct result of the altered action potentials in neurons caused by elevated potassium levels.

Choice C: Hypoactive bowel sounds

Reason: Hypoactive bowel sounds are generally associated with conditions that cause decreased gastrointestinal motility, such as ileus or bowel obstruction. While hyperkalemia can affect muscle function, it is more likely to cause hyperactive bowel sounds due to increased gastrointestinal motility rather than hypoactive sounds.

Choice D: Cerebral edema

Reason: Cerebral edema is swelling of the brain and is not a typical manifestation of hyperkalemia. It is more commonly associated with conditions such as traumatic brain injury, stroke, or severe infections. Hyperkalemia primarily affects the heart and muscles.