Identifying Postpartum Complications

During the postpartum period, a nurse is assessing a client who is 4 days post-vaginal delivery. The client reports heavy vaginal bleeding and a foul-smelling discharge. The nurse notes that the client's fundus is firm and midline but at the level of the umbilicus. Based on the assessment findings, the nurse suspects the possibility of a complication.

In this scenario, the nurse should consider that the most likely cause of the client’s symptoms may be related to retained products of conception. Therefore, it is crucial to monitor the client for signs of _____________ that may indicate the need for further medical intervention.