A nurse is collecting data on a client who has infective endocarditis. The nurse should recognize which of the following findings is the priority to report to the provider?

A. Fever is a common manifestation of infective endocarditis but not the priority concern. B. Malaise is expected with infection and is not urgent. C. Dyspnea indicates impaired oxygenation, possibly from heart failure or pulmonary embolism, both of which are life-threatening complications and therefore the priority finding. D. Anorexia is a nonspecific manifestation of infection and not urgent.