A nurse is collecting data on a client who has circulatory overload. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

Choice A reason: The nurse applies the sterile drape prior to cleansing the perineal area. This is a correct action by the nurse, as it helps to prevent contamination of the catheter insertion site and maintain a sterile field.

Choice B reason: The nurse coats the indwelling urinary catheter with lubricant. This is a correct action by the nurse, as it helps to ease the insertion of the catheter and reduce the risk of trauma or infection.

Choice C reason: The nurse separates the client's labia with her dominant hand. This is an incorrect action by the nurse, as it violates the principle of sterile technique. The nurse should use her non-dominant hand to separate the labia and expose the urethral meatus, and use her dominant hand to hold the catheter. The non-dominant hand should not touch anything else after separating the labia, as it is considered contaminated.

Choice D reason: The nurse provides perineal care prior to inserting the urinary catheter. This is a correct action by the nurse, as it helps to reduce the bacterial load and prevent infection. The nurse should use soap and water to cleanse the perineal area from front to back, and use a new washcloth for each stroke.

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.