While conducting a physical assessment, a client with cirrhosis of the liver reports to the nurse of having had a 5 lb (2.3 kg) weight gain within the last week. Which assessment finding correlates with the client's comment?

A. Decreased level of consciousness: While altered mental status can occur in clients with cirrhosis, it is not directly related to recent weight gain. B. Increased abdominal girth: Weight gain in clients with cirrhosis can be due to fluid retention, which often manifests as increased abdominal girth. C. Increased respiratory rate: Respiratory rate is not typically directly correlated with recent weight gain in clients with cirrhosis. D. Decreased bowel sounds: While bowel sounds may be decreased in clients with cirrhosis, they are not directly related to recent weight gain.