A nurse is assessing a client 3 days following a hysterectomy. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as an indication the client is developing a complication?

A. Unilateral leg swelling: Swelling in one leg following surgery may indicate deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a serious postoperative complication. DVT can lead to life-threatening pulmonary embolism if untreated, so early recognition and intervention are crucial in the post-hysterectomy period. B. Increased hemoglobin: An increase in hemoglobin is not typically associated with postoperative complications. It may occur due to hemoconcentration but is not a red flag for immediate concern after surgery. C. Increased urinary output: Increased urinary output is usually not indicative of a complication following hysterectomy. Abnormal urinary patterns of concern would include decreased output, dysuria, or signs of infection rather than an increase in volume. D. Mild pain at the surgical site: Mild pain is an expected finding after a hysterectomy and is part of the normal healing process. Pain that is manageable with prescribed analgesics does not indicate a complication.