A nurse is preparing to insert an indwelling urinary catheter for a client. Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take?

Choice A reason: Respiratory rate 28/min is not a sign of effective oxygen therapy, as it indicates tachypnea, which is a rapid breathing rate. Tachypnea can be caused by hypoxia, anxiety, fever, or pain.

Choice B reason: Pink mucous membranes are a sign of effective oxygen therapy, as they indicate adequate oxygenation of the tissues. Pink mucous membranes are a normal finding, while pale, cyanotic, or jaundiced mucous membranes can indicate hypoxia or other problems.

Choice C reason: Heart rate 110/min is not a sign of effective oxygen therapy, as it indicates tachycardia, which is a rapid heart rate. Tachycardia can be caused by hypoxia, stress, dehydration, or infection.

Choice D reason: Restlessness is not a sign of effective oxygen therapy, as it indicates agitation, anxiety, or discomfort. Restlessness can be caused by hypoxia, pain, or medication side effects.

The correct answer is c. Muscle weakness.

Choice A: Hypertension

Reason: Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is not a typical manifestation of hypokalemia. Hypokalemia primarily affects muscle function and the nervous system. While potassium imbalances can influence blood pressure, hypertension is more commonly associated with hyperkalemia (high potassium levels) rather than hypokalemia.

Choice B: Cerebral Edema

Reason: Cerebral edema, which is swelling of the brain, is not a known manifestation of hypokalemia. Hypokalemia affects muscle and nerve function, but it does not directly cause cerebral edema. This condition is more related to severe head injuries, infections, or other medical conditions.

Choice C: Muscle Weakness

Reason: Muscle weakness is a common and significant manifestation of hypokalemia. Potassium is crucial for muscle function, and low levels can lead to muscle weakness, cramps, and even paralysis in severe cases. This is because potassium helps in the transmission of nerve signals to muscles, and a deficiency disrupts this process.

Choice D: Hyperactive Bowel Sounds

Reason: Hyperactive bowel sounds are not typically associated with hypokalemia. In fact, hypokalemia can lead to decreased bowel motility, resulting in symptoms like constipation or ileus (a condition where the intestines do not move properly). This is due to the role of potassium in muscle contractions, including those in the digestive tract.