A nurse is assessing a toddler during a well-child visit. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as an indication of nephrotic syndrome?

A. Constipation: Constipation is not typically associated with nephrotic syndrome. While toddlers may experience constipation for various reasons, it does not indicate the protein loss, edema, or fluid retention characteristic of nephrotic syndrome. B. Irritability: Irritability can be a nonspecific symptom in toddlers and may occur for many reasons, such as fatigue or discomfort, but it is not a hallmark sign of nephrotic syndrome and does not reflect the primary pathophysiology. C. Increased urinary output: Nephrotic syndrome is generally associated with normal or decreased urinary output due to fluid retention and edema. Increased urine output is not consistent with the fluid shifts and hypoalbuminemia seen in this condition. D. Increased abdominal girth: Increased abdominal girth is a key indicator of nephrotic syndrome in toddlers, resulting from fluid accumulation (ascites) due to hypoalbuminemia and edema. Monitoring for abdominal swelling helps identify disease onset or exacerbation.