A nurse is evaluating a client who underwent a kidney transplant two weeks ago. Which of the following clinical manifestations should the nurse recognize as a potential indication of organ rejection?
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A reason: Fever is a hallmark of kidney transplant rejection, as the immune system activates against the graft, triggering inflammation and cytokine release. This systemic response elevates body temperature, signaling potential acute rejection, which requires urgent intervention to prevent graft loss and systemic complications in immunocompromised patients. Choice B reason: Weight loss is not a primary sign of kidney transplant rejection. It may occur due to malnutrition or other chronic conditions but is less specific than fever. Rejection typically presents with symptoms like fever, graft tenderness, or reduced urine output due to impaired graft function. Choice C reason: Hypotension is not typically associated with kidney transplant rejection. Instead, hypertension is more common due to fluid retention or immunosuppressive drugs. Hypotension may indicate other issues like hypovolemia or sepsis but is not a direct indicator of the immune-mediated process of rejection. Choice D reason: Increased urine output is not a sign of rejection; decreased output is more likely due to impaired graft function. Rejection causes inflammation and reduced glomerular filtration, leading to oliguria. Increased urine output may suggest other conditions like diabetes insipidus, not rejection.