A nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative and has developed atelectasis. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

A. Dry cough: While a cough may be present in atelectasis, it is usually ineffective and nonproductive. A dry cough alone is not as significant an indicator as changes in oxygenation and respiratory effort. B. Facial flushing: Facial flushing is not typically associated with atelectasis. It may occur in fever, emotional stress, or certain cardiovascular conditions, but it does not reflect alveolar collapse or impaired gas exchange. C. Increasing dyspnea: Atelectasis reduces alveolar ventilation, leading to hypoxemia and increased work of breathing. Clients often experience shortness of breath and difficulty breathing, which is a hallmark sign of this condition. D. Decreasing respiratory rate: Respiratory rate usually increases, not decreases, in response to hypoxemia caused by atelectasis. A slowing respiratory rate may indicate fatigue or impending respiratory failure rather than the initial presentation.