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)]

Rationale: A. Sodium level 140 mEq/L (140 mmol/L): This value is within the normal reference range and is unlikely to contribute to the development of a dysrhythmia. Sodium imbalances can affect cardiac function, but this level does not pose a risk. B. Potassium level 3.8 mg/dL (3.8 mmol/L): Potassium is within the normal range (3.5–5.0 mEq/L) and would not typically precipitate a cardiac dysrhythmia. Hypokalemia or hyperkalemia outside of the normal range would be more concerning. C. Calcium level 7.2 mg/dL (1.8 mmol/L): This value is below the normal range (8.4–10.6 mg/dL), indicating hypocalcemia. Low calcium levels can prolong the QT interval and increase the risk of ventricular dysrhythmias, making this the most likely contributing factor to the telemetry changes. D. Oxygen saturation level 97%: This oxygen saturation is within the normal range and does not contribute to cardiac dysrhythmias. Adequate oxygenation reduces, rather than exacerbates, the risk of arrhythmias.