A client recovering from cardiac surgery experiences a dysrhythmia, noted on the telemetry monitor. Which assessment finding is most likely to have contributed to the development of the dysrhythmia? Reference Range: Total Calcium [8.4 to 10.6 mg/dL (2.10 to 2.50 mmol/L)] Sodium [136 to 145 mEq/L (136 to 145 mmol/L)] Potassium (K+) [3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L (3.5 to 5.0 mmol/L)]

A. Potassium level 3.8 mg/dL (3.8 mmol/L): This potassium level is within the normal range (3.5–5.0 mmol/L) and is unlikely to contribute to the dysrhythmia. Potassium abnormalities can affect cardiac rhythm, but this value does not indicate a risk factor. B. Sodium level 140 mEq/L (140 mmol/L): This is also within the expected reference range for sodium (136–145 mEq/L). While sodium imbalances can cause neurological changes and fluid shifts, this normal level would not be expected to provoke a dysrhythmia. C. Oxygen saturation level 97%: An oxygen saturation of 97% indicates adequate oxygenation and perfusion. Hypoxia can lead to arrhythmias, but with this normal value, oxygen deficiency is not a contributing factor. D. Calcium level 7.2 mg/dL (1.8 mmol/L): This calcium level is below the normal reference range and indicates hypocalcemia, which can lead to cardiac dysrhythmias. Calcium plays a key role in myocardial contractility and electrical conduction, and low levels can provoke arrhythmogenic effects.