A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a client who is taking a loop diuretic and notes the client’s potassium level is 3.0 mEq/L. Which of the following physiological responses should the nurse expect related to the client’s hypokalemia?

a. Neck vein distention: Neck vein distention may indicate fluid overload, but it is not a direct measure of fluid losses.

b. Body weight: Monitoring body weight before and after hemodialysis provides a direct

measure of fluid losses. Hemodialysis removes excess fluid, and changes in body weight reflect fluid balance.

c. Abdominal girth: Abdominal girth may be affected by fluid accumulation but is not a direct measure of fluid losses during hemodialysis.

d. Blood pressure: While blood pressure may be influenced by fluid status, it is not a specific measure of fluid losses during hemodialysis. Body weight is a more direct indicator of fluid removal.

a. Increasing dyspnea: Atelectasis is the collapse of alveoli, leading to decreased lung volume and impaired gas exchange. Dyspnea (difficulty breathing) is a common symptom as the lung's ability to oxygenate the blood is compromised.

b. Dry cough: A dry cough may be present, but it is not specific to atelectasis. It can occur for various reasons postoperatively.

c. Facial flushing: Facial flushing is not a typical finding in atelectasis. It is more commonly associated with conditions such as fever or allergic reactions.

d. Decreasing respiratory rate: Atelectasis can lead to increased respiratory rate as the body tries to compensate for decreased lung function. A decreasing respiratory rate would be less likely in the presence of atelectasis.