Which finding during assessment may indicate hypokalemia in a client with diarrhea for the past 3 days?

Muscle weakness is a key indicator of hypokalemia, particularly in the context of diarrhea, which can lead to significant potassium loss in the body. Potassium is crucial for proper muscle function, and low levels can interfere with neuromuscular transmission, leading to weakness. This muscle weakness may manifest as generalized fatigue or difficulty in performing daily activities, which is particularly notable in clients with ongoing diarrhea, as their potassium levels can deplete rapidly.

In the scenario described, the client with diarrhea is at risk for electrolyte imbalances, including low potassium levels, making the assessment of muscle strength vital. While muscle cramping can also be associated with low potassium, muscle weakness is often more prominent and can reflect more generalized conditions related to potassium deficiency. Signs such as an increased heart rate and low blood pressure can sometimes be present in hypokalemia, but they are not as specific or definitive as muscle weakness in assessing this electrolyte imbalance. Thus, weakness aligns closely with the physiological effects of hypokalemia experienced by the client.