A nurse is caring for a female client following abdominal surgery. Which of the following findings is the client at greatest risk for?

A. The client exhibits abdominal distension, hypoactive bowel sounds, and no bowel movement for 2 days postoperatively, which are classic signs of postoperative ileus or intestinal obstruction. Abdominal surgery can impair bowel motility due to handling of the intestines, anesthesia, or opioid analgesics. Early recognition is crucial to prevent complications such as bowel perforation or severe electrolyte imbalance. B. While postoperative clients are at risk for infection, there is currently no fever, elevated WBC, or wound signs of infection. Infection is a concern but not the greatest immediate risk based on this assessment. C. The client is at risk for DVT due to immobility; however, vital signs and assessment do not indicate swelling, redness, or calf tenderness, making this less urgent than a potential intestinal obstruction. D. The client’s oxygen saturation is 97–98%, and respiratory rate is stable. While immobility and postoperative status increase the risk of atelectasis, current findings do not indicate immediate respiratory compromise.