A nurse is assessing a client who has heart failure and is taking digoxin. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as an indication of hypokalemia?

A. Elevated blood pressure: Hypertension is not a specific sign of hypokalemia. Potassium levels primarily affect cardiac and neuromuscular function rather than directly influencing blood pressure in acute situations. B. Tetany: Tetany is more commonly associated with hypocalcemia, not hypokalemia. Muscle cramps from low potassium are typically less severe and do not present as sustained involuntary contractions. C. Muscle weakness: Hypokalemia reduces the excitability of muscle cells, leading to muscle weakness, fatigue, and sometimes cramping. In clients taking digoxin, low potassium increases the risk of digoxin toxicity, making this a critical assessment finding. D. Diarrhea: Diarrhea is a potential cause of hypokalemia but is not a manifestation of low potassium levels. It can lead to potassium loss but does not directly indicate hypokalemia in the client.