Identifying Postoperative Complications: Ascites

A nurse is monitoring a patient who has just undergone an abdominal surgery. During the postoperative period, the nurse is aware of potential complications that can arise. One of the specific complications that the nurse is vigilant about is the development of ________. This complication is characterized by an accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity, which can lead to significant discomfort and may necessitate further medical intervention.

It is crucial for the nurse to assess signs such as abdominal distension, changes in bowel sounds, and possible shifting dullness upon palpation to identify this complication early.