A nurse is collecting data from a client who has pneumonia and is experiencing acute respiratory acidosis. Which of the following manifestations should the nurse expect to find?

Rationale: A. Circumoral numbness and tingling are typically associated with respiratory alkalosis, not acidosis. B. Muscle flaccidity is more indicative of electrolyte imbalances or late-stage neurologic decline, but not a key early sign of respiratory acidosis. C. Cool, clammy skin may occur with shock or hypoperfusion, but is not a hallmark sign of respiratory acidosis. D. Decreased level of consciousness is a key manifestation of acute respiratory acidosis, as rising CO₂ levels depress the central nervous system, leading to confusion, lethargy, and eventually coma if untreated.