After an assessment, the nurse realizes that a client demonstrates cognitive responses to stress. What behaviors did the client demonstrate for the nurse to make this clinical determination?

A. Light-headedness when standing up:
Elevated potassium levels (hyperkalemia) can lead to muscle weakness or paralysis, cardiac dysrhythmias, and even cardiac arrest. Light-headedness when standing up is more commonly associated with orthostatic hypotension or volume depletion rather than electrolyte imbalances like hyperkalemia.

B. Weak quadriceps muscles:
Weakness in the quadriceps muscles is not typically associated with the electrolyte imbalances presented in the scenario. Hyperkalemia can cause muscle weakness, but it is not specific to the quadriceps.

C. Decreased deep tendon reflexes:
Decreased deep tendon reflexes are not typically associated with the electrolyte imbalances presented in the scenario. Hyperkalemia can lead to hyperreflexia or absent reflexes, but it is not specific to decreased deep tendon reflexes.

D. Tingling of extremities:
This is the correct answer. Hypocalcemia, indicated by the low calcium level in the scenario, can manifest with symptoms such as tingling or numbness of the extremities, muscle cramps, and tetany. Calcium plays a crucial role in nerve transmission, and low levels can lead to sensory disturbances like tingling in the extremities.

B. Post NO SMOKING signs in a prominent location in the home:
Oxygen supports combustion, making smoking or exposure to open flames highly dangerous in an oxygen-enriched environment. Posting NO SMOKING signs serves as a reminder to everyone in the household to avoid smoking or using open flames near the oxygen source.

C. Notify local fire department:
It's crucial to inform the local fire department that a client is using home oxygen therapy. This ensures that emergency responders are aware of the presence of oxygen in the home in case of a fire or emergency situation.

E. Check the tops of the ears for skin breakdown:
The nasal cannula can cause pressure on the tops of the ears, potentially leading to skin breakdown, especially with prolonged use. Checking for skin breakdown and providing appropriate skin care helps prevent complications and ensures the client's comfort.

A. Verify the oxygen flow rate every other day:
While it's essential to ensure that the oxygen equipment is functioning properly and that the prescribed flow rate is appropriate for the client's needs, checking it every other day may not be necessary unless there are specific concerns or changes in the client's condition.

D. Apply petroleum ointment to nares if they become dry and irritated:
While it's common for the nasal passages to become dry with oxygen therapy, applying petroleum ointment may not be recommended without consulting the healthcare provider first, as it can interfere with oxygen delivery and increase the risk of infection.